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Learn MoreMany small business owners assume that cyber-attacks only happen to big companies, banks or governments. But the truth is, limited knowledge of digital security and lack of defenses make small businesses particularly vulnerable to attack.
Most attacks happen to businesses with less than 100 employees – and yet many owners have yet to invest in a formal defense plan.
With cyberattack insurance premiums increasing, prevention is typically the smartest (and most budget-friendly) approach for small business owners.
Follow these four steps to fortify your small business against a cyberattack and maintain the ongoing trust of your valued customers.
A thorough threat assessment is the ideal first step to knowing precisely where and how your small business may be vulnerable to cyber intruders.
Consider contracting a cyber security specialist to help you analyze your digital ecosystem and data storage practices, in order to identify weak areas and create a security action plan.
Cyber attackers use highly sophisticated automated software to seek out and infiltrate poorly defended networks.
Ensure your business doesn't get caught in their net by installing a firewall that can control incoming and outgoing data and help prevent unauthorized access to your network.
Other practical steps you can take to protect yourself include:
Many businesses overlook the importance of regularly changing passwords that guard critical systems and confidential data.
Refresh your passwords every two to three months, ensuring they are at least 8 characters long and a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. Also, the use of long phrases that includes punctuation marks is emerging as a strong password safeguard. Steer clear of using personal information, like your child's name or your date of birth, as these combinations are much easier for cyber attackers to guess.
Employee education is one of the most important defenses against cyber-attack. For lack of training, your own team members might inadvertently install malware or release confidential information to a criminal masquerading as a trusted contact.
Ensure your staff understands best practices in digital defense by:
By implementing these preventative measures, your company will be well positioned to evade a cyber-attack – and get on with the business of growing!
Your security and privacy matters at First Bank. Before you send us an email, please be sure that you are not sending confidential or personal information – like your account number or social security number. If you need to share this type of information with us, please call us at 1-800-538-3979.
