Cybersecurity is crucial for small businesses, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are 10 free ways to protect your business from cyber threats. Each tip is simple and easy to understand.
1. Use Strong Passwords
Make sure everyone in your business uses strong, unique passwords. A strong password has at least 12 characters, including letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words or easy-to-guess information. A good rule of thumb is never use a password that can be traced back to you or the user for example, spouse name/birthday , dependents name/birthday , names of pets or any information that can be found easily on social media. If possible, aim to change the password every 6 months or so this can provide adequate security measures for your small business that is manageable.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security. It requires not just a password but also a second form of identification, like a code sent to your phone. This method is one of the most recommended practices a small business can use to protect their businesses, the following two-factor authentication apps are the ones we use and recommend Google Authenticator and twilio Authy. This provides two layer security so whenever a password is required for sign in, a code that is sent to your phone app is also required removing the threat if your password is leaked.
3. Regularly Update Software
Keep all software up to date. This includes your operating system, apps, and antivirus programs. Updates often fix security bugs that hackers can exploit. Something we all procrastinate is keeping our software up to date , scheduling dates for your small business can run software updates and ensuring that all systems, software programs are up to date this prevents vulnerabilities that may appear due to exploits that are fixed through system updates.
4. Install Antivirus Software
Antivirus software protects your computer from malware. There are many free antivirus programs available, such as AVG, Bitdefender and the standard Microsoft defender antivirus which comes with windows operating system that offer strong protection. If your small business is on a budget and wants to make the most any of these Three antiviruses can provide many security components for free, whats important is not to expose your company to unnecessary risk for example company computers are only used for company work and nothing else as well as no strange devices that have not been authorized to be used on company computers.
5. Backup Your Data
Regularly back up important data. Use a free cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox, and make sure backups are automatic and regular. This way, you can recover your data if something goes wrong. Scheduling these backups to prioritize sensitive company documents is crucial for protecting your small business against ransomware or threats against your information. There are a number of options the best is mega.nz which offers 20Gigs free cloud storage , the next alternative is google drive which offers 15GB but does require you to use gmail email and those who you share it will, both options are secure and reliable.
6. Educate Employees
Teach your employees about cybersecurity. Show them how to recognize phishing emails, avoid suspicious links, and protect sensitive information. Regular training can prevent many security issues. This is one of the most underrated steps to take as a small business, share the information about the potential threats and make sure that staff knows what to look for and what to delete and ignore , the best approach is to always delete first when receiving a strange zip file or attachment from a unknown strange email address. Share information on a regular basis with staff and let them know they are the first line of defence.
7. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Make sure your Wi-Fi network is secure. Change the default password, use WPA3 encryption, and hide your network’s SSID (name) if possible. Change the default router login details and use a strong password. Update router firmware, enable network firewalls. By taking these steps as a small business you can ensure your wireless network wont be accessible by anyone outside of your company.
8. Use a Firewall
A firewall can protect your network from outside attacks. Most operating systems come with a built-in firewall, so make sure it’s enabled and properly configured. Firewalls provide protection against outside cyber attackers by shielding your computer or network from malicious or unnecessary network traffic. Firewalls can also prevent malicious software from accessing a computer or network via the internet.
9. Limit Access to Sensitive Information
Not everyone in your business needs access to all data. Limit access to sensitive information to only those who need it for their job. This reduces the risk of data leaks. Certain privileges should be available to the IT department of your small business as administrators and it should stop there not everyone should have access to everything this will mitigate your risk and protect your organization.
10. Monitor Your Accounts
Regularly check your accounts for any unusual activity. This includes bank accounts, email accounts, and social media. Early detection of suspicious activity can prevent bigger problems. If you notice something that looks out of place, report it as soon as possible , block , report as spam, call the company and delete to avoid being compromised. By following these proactive steps, your small business can significantly improve its cybersecurity without spending. Stay safe and secure!
