In business, your reputation is everything. It takes years to build and generate, yet it can all come crashing down with just a few clicks. And if your cybersecurity isn’t up to scratch, then you could already be tempting fate.
It’s easy to think that to keep your company safe you need a firewall and some anti-malware software, and while these are valuable assets in your cybersecurity arsenal, they’re not always enough to protect you from hackers and cybercriminals. Worryingly, hackers and criminals are always on the lookout for the most overlooked holes in your online security. Without acknowledging these risks, you and your business could be in digital danger.
Here we’ll explore common cybersecurity risks that are often overlooked.
Your digital assets
If you’re unsure what a digital asset is, then chances are you’re not protecting them from hackers and online thieves. A digital asset is any kind of digital file that adds value to your business, so images of your products, product databases, company headshots, packaging or drop shipping information, marketing materials, raw video footage, illustrations, models etc. If you’re storing these in cloud-based storage systems, on your desktop or in a various array of different locations then you could be putting them at risk. You can protect your digital assets with Digital Asset Management software. This fully tailored and secure, personal library of your files means they’re all in one place and usage permissions give you complete control over who has access to them at any time.
Poor training management
We get it. It’s difficult to stay awake in these kinds of meetings, however, if you’re an employer then often the security of your files and customer accounts is in the hands of your staff. And if your teams aren’t trained well enough on the importance of cybersecurity then you’ve already lost. Every employee should be regularly trained and updated on the latest security practices, such as what a phishing email looks like or warning signs of a dodgy phone call.
Passwords
Did you know that some people are still using the password “password” in 2020? It’s a worrying thought…unless you’re a cyber-criminal. Not only that but using the same password for multiple accounts and software is also asking for trouble! Ensure that all staff (including yourself) are trained on the importance of password complexities and variations. Password managers are usually a good investment.
Personal devices
If you’re working from home or you have employees who are working remotely, then you may be overlooking the security issues that come with personal devices. Asking employees to ramp up their personal devices anti-malware and virus protection as well as using VPNs and following password guidelines can help keep the risk of a security breach low.
Final thoughts…
Don’t be fooled into believing that a cybercriminal won’t target a small business like yours. Often, it’s modest companies that have the poorest online security measures in place, making themselves and all their customer data, an easy target.
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