Cybersecurity can be a daunting task. 

There are multiple factors to take into consideration and it can be easily overwhelming for a small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). 

But there are some essential factors that should be reviewed on a regular basis.

Here are five cybersecurity essentials your SMB should double-checking before the end of the year.  

1. Updates

As annoying as those little pop-up ads can be asking if you would like to update your software, they’re a crucial step in keeping an SMBs data safe. The updates keep your technology on the front lines when it comes to safety. 

And hackers hate updates. 

How does your cybersecurity stack up? Take this assessment to find out.

2. Back It Up (Offline)

Most data an SMB keeps is crucial their day-to-day operations, but the digital realm isn’t always reliable. 

Keep the files safe by backing them up and having a disaster recovery plan in place.

3. Passwords & Authentication

The most basic form of cybersecurity is the password. 

All passwords should be lengthy and a mix of numbers, symbols, and capital and lowercase letters. Don’t reuse or share them, especially in a digital capacity. Limiting the number of password attempts allowed will also limit the accessibility from cyberattacks. 

Further, once a device has been unlocked, it should not be left unattended. 

Finally, your systems should use multi-factor authentication.

4. Encryptions

Most SMBs require the use of their clients’ personal information. It’s crucial to keep this safe. All devices that personally identifiable information is on should be encrypted. This includes devices such as laptops, smartphones, removable drives, and cloud storage.

5. Securing the Router

After your Wi-Fi is set up, there are a couple steps an SMB can take to prevent leaks. 

After the router is set up, change the default name and password, turn off remote management, and log out as the administrator. Check that this has been done to make sure your wireless network is secure.

What Else Should You Know?

Train Your Employees

Every member of the SMB should be versed in these simple steps to avoid a cyberattack, not only the leaders. Cybersecurity awareness should be a part of a new hire’s training, with retraining at regular intervals (once a year, every other year, etc.). 

If a new point of access or vulnerability has been noted, notify employees immediately. 

Implement Access Controls

Limit the allowance of data to only those employees who need the information in their day-to-day position. Warn them about the threat of social media and phishing messages that could lead to a breach of cybersecurity. 

Define Acceptable Use

It’s not just cyberattacks from outside the SMB that can lead to data leaks. Employees within the organization could also put sensitive information at risk without being aware. Consider implementing an acceptable use policy.

Keep Cybersecurity Top Of Mind

The most crucial step to better cybersecurity is to recognize that cybersecurity should be a constant factor in an SMB’s day-to-day business. A cyberattack or leak could severely damage confidence in an SMB’s brand, as well as financial losses. 

While it can be a daunting task, regular reviews can help protect an organization’s data and their reputation. 

Photo by Philipp Katzenberger on Unsplash