Data Security can be a daunting proposition for small businesses, how can you be sure your data is protected without access to the resources and expertise available to larger firms? The following tips provide good business practices anyone can follow.
Educate
The key to good security practice is ensuring that every member of your team understands why it is so important. Establish set procedures, such as regularly updating passwords, setting a lock screen and virus-checking downloads. The rise of social media has increased connectivity, but has also brought risks, make sure your staff don’t give away sensitive information over Facebook, Twitter or image sharing apps like Instagram. Stress the need to keep physical IT assets such as USB sticks and laptops safe from theft or loss.
Protect
Finding the right virus protection and spyware blocking software is more important than ever, due to the ever increasing sophistication of hacking and information fishing tools used by criminals. Anti-virus software must be regularly updated, as new threats are constantly emerging. Most of these programs automatically update, so keep them set to do so. Be wary of files from sites and emails that you are not familiar with, always download with caution. Is your Wifi secure? Set a strong password for it and be careful who you allow access.
Prioritise
It’s a good idea to consider what are your most valuable assets are and how to protect them. Databases are crucial to modern businesses, not only for information storage but also the day-to-day operation of IT systems. Email messages often contain confidential business information, that you definitely don’t want falling into the wrong hands. Decide your priorities for data security early on, and make sure you have a plan for business-critical failures or breaches.
Copy
If the worst case scenario does happen, then at least be able to carry on with copies of essential files. Backup files as often as is feasible and make sure your copies are safe and accessible. Cloud-based backup services store your data on a secure server, saving you the cost and effort of hosting it yourself. Think about when the best time to back up is. Many firms will do this outside of business hours, as not to interfere with work. There are options to automate these processes, an attractive proposition for busy small business owners.
SwiftCase offers secure, cloud-based Case Management, keeping your case and staff related data safe and centralised in one program. Get in touch today.