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10 IT Security Measure Hacks

With everyone on the web vulnerable to potential hacks and data breaches, as a business, you want to have peace of mind that are doing everything you can to stay one step ahead of hacking threats. But is it enough?

#1 Install reliable anti-virus software

Possibly the most basic of additions to your computer network and yet, many businesses and home networks are still running without a reliable anti-virus piece of kit. Choose one that automatically and regularly checks for new threats.

#2 Use better passwords

Research has shown that people use the same passwords over and over again. And neither are passwords particularly complex. Use passwords that include a combination of capital letters, small letters, digits and ‘special characters’.

#3 Firewall protection

Protecting your inbound and outbound traffic is essential and prevent some hackers by blocking certain websites. Call us to find out more.

#4 Encryption software

If customer pay online, encryption software protects their payment details. As an online retailer, you are expected to take all reasonable steps to protect customers financial and sensitive information.

#5 Train staff to ignore suspicious emails

Emails from someone you don’t know with attachments or invitations to connect to certain sites should be deleted without opening. Unfortunately, hackers are sending emails that look incredibly authentic, especially banking ones. Double/triple check if you are not sure!

#6 Limit access to critical data

By having an open system, you may think you are trusting your staff but a tiered system of access is an important hack in keeping critical information safe.

#7 Regular back-up

Annoying and frustrating as it can take so long, but, regularly backing-up data using tried and tested systems is an important line of defence against hackers. They steal information hoping to grind your business to a halt. But with back-up data, you have the basis on which to continue operating.

#8 Secure your Wi-Fi network

You can offer free Wi-Fi but you should protect it with a password so that people must ask for it. This way you can ensure that hackers don’t get into your Wi-Fi connection, change its name and password, and lock you out.

#9 Secure all technology and equipment

This means passwords, as a minimum, protecting mobile phones, laptops and other gadgets connects to your business computer networks.

#10 Training and policies

Cyber-threats change all the time. And as such, you need to be training your staff to be vigilant, as well as communicating the latest threats and scams to watch out for. Lay down how people are expected to behave and respond with an IT policy.

To beat the scammers and the hackers, above all else, you need to be pro-active, constantly vigilant and taking steps to stop them.