Cyber hygiene practices for small to medium sized companies
Cyber hygiene is the practice of taking steps to protect your devices and data from cyber threats.
It is just as important for small to medium-sized companies (SMBs) as it is for large enterprises. SMBs are often targeted by cybercriminals because they are seen as easier targets.
Here are some cyber hygiene practices that SMBs can implement to protect themselves:
Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Strong passwords are at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your phone in addition to your password when logging in.
Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect you from known vulnerabilities. Be sure to install updates for your operating system, web browser, and other software applications as soon as they are available.
Use a firewall and antivirus software. A firewall can help protect your network from unauthorized access, while antivirus software can help detect and remove malware.
Be careful about what emails you open and what links you click on. Phishing emails are designed to trick you into revealing your personal information or clicking on malicious links. If you receive an email from an unknown sender, or if the email contains a link that looks suspicious, do not click on it.
Educate your employees about cyber security. Your employees are your first line of defense against cyber attacks. Make sure they are aware of the latest threats and how to protect themselves.
Here are some additional tips for SMBs:
Have a cybersecurity plan in place. Your cybersecurity plan should include policies and procedures for how to protect your data and systems. It should also include a plan for responding to a cyber attack.
Back up your data regularly. In the event of a cyber attack, having a backup of your data can be essential for getting back up and running quickly.
Monitor your systems for suspicious activity. There are a number of tools available that can help you monitor your systems for suspicious activity. This can help you identify and respond to cyber attacks quickly.
By implementing these cyber hygiene practices, SMBs can help protect themselves from cyber threats.