Cyber Security for Small Business

How we keep your endpoints, users, network, and data secure

Staying up-to-date with the latest threats in the world of cyber-security can feel like a near-impossible task for a small business – especially if the business lacks internal IT expertise.

That’s why the professionals at Silverleaf are here to fill in security-related knowledge gaps for your business, and recommend best practices to help keep your critical IT systems safe & secure.

It’s important for every small business to know that there is no single policy, anti-virus software, or network hardware appliance that can keep your business 100% safe. In fact, this is why cyber-security experts stress the importance of implementing IT security in layers.

Layered cyber security is the practice of using many different security controls at different levels to protect assets. This provides strength and depth to reduce the effects of a threat.

However, a common security misconception among small businesses is the idea that they are “too small to hack”, and therefore don’t need to invest in cyber security protections or multiple layers of protection. The truth is, hackers frequently target small businesses – precisely because small businesses commonly lack even the most basic IT security measures.

Essential Cyber Security for Small Business

Here’s a summary of the most important IT security layers Silverleaf recommends to help keep your small business protected:

Train employees in security principles
Establish basic security practices and policies for employees, such as requiring strong passwords, and establish appropriate Internet use guidelines that detail penalties for violating company cybersecurity policies. Establish rules of behavior describing how to handle and protect customer information and other vital data.
Protect information, computers, and networks from cyber attacks
Keep clean machines: having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Set antivirus software to run a scan after each update. Install other key software updates as soon as they are available.
Provide firewall security for your Internet connection
A firewall is a set of related programs that prevent outsiders from accessing data on a private network. Make sure the operating system’s firewall is enabled or install free firewall software available online. If employees work from home, ensure that their home system(s) are protected by a firewall.
Create a mobile device action plan
Mobile devices can create significant security and management challenges, especially if they hold confidential information or can access the corporate network. Require users to password-protect their devices, encrypt their data, and install security apps to prevent criminals from stealing information while the phone is on public networks. Be sure to set reporting procedures for lost or stolen equipment.
Make backup copies of important business data and information
Regularly backup the data on all computers. Critical data includes word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, human resources files, and accounts receivable/payable files. Backup data automatically if possible, or at least weekly and store the copies either offsite or in the cloud.
Control physical access to your computers and create user accounts for each employee
Prevent access or use of business computers by unauthorized individuals. Laptops can be particularly easy targets for theft or can be lost, so lock them up when unattended. Make sure a separate user account is created for each employee and require strong passwords. Administrative privileges should only be given to trusted IT staff and key personnel.
Secure your Wi-Fi networks
If you have a Wi-Fi network for your workplace, make sure it is secure, encrypted, and hidden. To hide your Wi-Fi network, set up your wireless access point or router, so it does not broadcast the network name, known as the Service Set Identifier (SSID). Password protect access to the router.
Employ best practices on payment cards
Work with banks or processors to ensure the most trusted and validated tools and anti-fraud services are being used. You may also have additional security obligations pursuant to agreements with your bank or processor. Isolate payment systems from other, less secure programs and don’t use the same computer to process payments and surf the Internet.
Limit employee access to data and information, limit authority to install software
Do not provide any one employee with access to all data systems. Employees should only be given access to the specific data systems that they need for their jobs, and should not be able to install any software without permission.
Passwords and authentication
Require employees to use unique passwords and change passwords every three months. Consider implementing multi-factor authentication that requires additional information beyond a password to gain entry. Check with your vendors that handle sensitive data, especially financial institutions, to see if they offer multi-factor authentication for your account.

Source: fcc.gov

More Info

The above items are only a summary of security protections we offer as part of our managed IT services plans for small business clients.

For more information about how we can help protect your business, contact us to get started with a free consultation and network assessment.