Starting a new business can be a stressful process, with so many factors to take into account. One of the ways in which you can relieve some of that stress is by having a good insurance plan that will cover you and your business in case of an emergency. See what TRUiC has to say about LLC insurance and why it is vital.
Since most businesses have allowed working from home, and the rise of digitalization in businesses, security has become increasingly important across all industries. But how can tech businesses improve their security?
What are the risks?
When working with technology, there is always a risk that you could be subject to a malicious cyber-attack. These attacks usually aim to retrieve passwords, personal data, and other sensitive information that they can use for their own personal gain. Once this information has been accessed, a breach has been made and there’s the risk of that information being used for criminal intent. That said, having access to cybersecurity as a service will keep your company protected from every angle.
Phishing emails are a good example of a technology risk. These emails are set up to look like a legitimate inquiry and often contain a link or external form to fill in. Once this is clicked and the details have been inputted, this information is then in the wrong hands.
Malware and ransomware are also examples of technology risks. This is where software is placed onto the computer that can cause a virus and attack victims via the network in order to leak sensitive information.
So, what can happen if your business is exposed to cyber risk?
Once your business has been exposed, any sensitive information, data, passwords, or otherwise can be accessed by the wrong sources and used with malicious intent. This can lead to data breaches of client information, often leading to you, the business, being in the line of fire and branded as an untrustworthy company to work with.
It can also lead to financial issues if the hackers are able to access bank account details and other security information. Even most commonly used IPs like 192.168.l.l can be at risk.
How can businesses improve their security?
- Use a trustworthy antivirus, VPN, and a firewall.
Having the right antivirus software on all computers within the company will limit the number of viruses and attacks that could happen. Having a firewall installed will also alert you when a link you’re clicking on could be suspicious or of malicious intent. A VPN will act as a secure gateway to the internet whilst hiding your IP address, making it hard to trace any of your online information. This is particularly useful for staff when they are working from home or on the go and might be using an unsecured network. - Regularly review your technology.
Ensuring that the technology you use is up to date and provided by a trusted source will go a long way to helping you keep your information safe. Have regular audits to see whether there are any areas that might need improvement or any ‘holes’ in your security that could lead to an issue. - Have a crisis management plan.
In case a security breach does happen, it’s important to have the right crisis management team on hand, as well as a trustworthy technology insurance provider. This will help cover your business against any technology sector risks and provide you with the right steps forward. - Train your staff properly.
Correctly trained staff are more likely to spot a security issue and report it. Things like phishing emails and other scams are far easier to recognise once the right training and thorough explanations have been provided.Remember to regularly update your staff on any changes to guidelines and have them complete training tasks to show that they are still compliant with spotting security breaches. - Monitor access, CCTV, and alarms.
Be sure to keep a close eye on who is entering your building and has access to your computers. Keep a log of everyone who visits along with check-in and check-out times, this will help you to spot any outliers that could be a potential risk.Keep unwanted access to a minimum by using doors that can only be opened by staff who have the right code or key fob. This means that no unauthorized personnel can access the building.
