Protect your Business from Cyber Attacks

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The events of the pandemic created many cybersecurity challenges for businesses. According to Forbes ‘a 600% increase in attacks on cloud servers was observed from January to April 2020 alone.’ When employees work remotely, the networks and devices that they use may not always be secure. Many staff members do not know how to recognize cybersecurity threats, which puts extra pressure on your business.

Most companies use cloud-based systems to support a remote working model. While cloud services can offer enhanced security, companies need to take steps to protect their network, for example, by taking advantage of a free cybersecurity audit from a reputable IT provider. To protect your business from cyberattacks in, focus on the following areas.

1 . Train Your Staff

According to Influencive, ‘approximately 88 percent of all data breaches are caused by an employee mistake.’ Businesses must provide their staff members with the latest cybersecurity training. Cybercriminals consistently adopt new practices, so training should be provided at regular intervals.

Research from Tessian discovered that ‘phishing was the most common type of cybercrime in 2020.’ When your staff know how to spot a phishing attempt, they are far less likely to be fooled.

2 . Use Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication is one of the most effective forms of cybersecurity protection. Research from Microsoft discovered that ‘MFA can block over 99.9 percent of account compromise attacks.’ Simply put, MFA uses several methods to verify the identity of a network user. First, your employees must identify themselves using a complex password. Next, they receive an alphanumeric code, sent to their mobile phone. Some MFA systems also ask for a fingerprint, or another biometric trait.

3. Mobile Device Management

Mobile Device Management involves managing, monitoring, and securing mobile devices. By using MDM, your managed IT services provider can oversee all of the devices that access your network. Your employees might log on using smartphones, tablets, or laptops. To keep your data safe, all of these end-points must be secure. With the help of an MDM system, your IT team can deploy security updates and monitor suspicious activity. You can also wipe a device that’s been lost or stolen.

Working with a managed IT service provider can improve your business security in many ways. You can get access to robust security support, for an affordable price. Managed service IT companies often offer a free cybersecurity audit for interested customers.

5. Backup Your Data

Businesses must ensure that all of their important data is backed up. When your data is backed up, it’s easier to recover if you experience a cyber attack. For extra security, consider a few different methods of data backup. Companies should check their backups every now and then, to ensure that these systems are working correctly. Managed IT services offer backup and disaster recovery options, as part of their cloud services.

A data breach can negatively impact your business reputation and your finances. With the right protection, you’ll boost productivity and reduce downtime. To protect your business further, invest in a cybersecurity insurance policy. Cyber security threats develop and change rapidly. With the right education and support, businesses can avoid security mishaps.