You just finished setting up your new business and finally getting all the paperwork sorted. You can look forward to growing your company and making money, right?
Maybe, but get one thing wrong with your cybersecurity, and hackers can steal your data. Worse, they can destroy your reputation or even lock you out of your own systems.
Many businesses make mistakes with cybersecurity. Some of them are on a far more damaging scale than others. If you want your company to stay safe and avoid those same pitfalls, here are some common errors in startup cybersecurity and how to avoid them.
1. Inadequate Security Protocols
Business startups in the digital realm routinely overlook certain cybersecurity measures. This can leave them vulnerable to hacks. Common errors include the following:
- not encrypting files
- inadequate user authentication
- lack of secure firewalls
To avoid these mistakes, business owners should employ basic security protocols to protect their data and systems. File encryption should include password protection and two-factor authentication.
User authentication should be strong and regularly updated. It must have a long and secure password policy. Lastly, strong firewalls should be in place to secure external access, along with antivirus software and intrusion detection systems.
2. Failing to Regularly Update Software and Hardware
Businesses are often too busy with other tasks or are not tech-savvy enough to remember to upgrade frequently. Cyber attackers usually try to exploit these outdated versions. This leads to security breaches or data theft.
To avoid this issue, businesses must set up an automated system to remind them to update their software and hardware. They should also prioritize high-risk areas such as the following:
- website and application development
- databases
- remote access points
- sensitive business information
Additionally, startups should have an up-to-date security patching strategy, which should include testing and installing any new patches and updates.
3. Weak Passwords
Weak passwords are easy to guess and can lead to unauthorized access to your system. To avoid this, you should use highly complex passwords that combine a variety of characters. Include upper-case and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
You should also regularly audit your system for weak passwords and create policies for using strong passwords in the future.
4. Over-Reliance on Public WIFI
The use of public Wi-Fi can increase the potential for man-in-the-middle attacks and make a small business’s network vulnerable to spying and malicious code injection. To avoid this mistake, public Wi-Fi should only be used for low-risk activities. This includes browsing the web or checking email.
For sensitive activities, such as online banking or accessing confidential data, a private, secure network should be used instead.
5. Not Training Employees
Without adequate proper training, employees may not know how to identify a malicious email, spot a phishing website, or even spot a scam. To avoid this common mistake, businesses should proactively assess the cybersecurity awareness of employees. This may be through tests, surveys, and other methods.
Companies should also provide comprehensive training to explain how to spot and respond to common cyber threats. Outsourcing a startup cybersecurity team is also a good idea for businesses. Check these Managed IT Services to know more about this option.
Avoid These Errors in Startup Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is critical for any business, especially startups that are just starting out. Knowing errors in startup cybersecurity and how to avoid them is central to protecting your business and customers.
Take the time to learn about cybersecurity and safety measures to ensure your business is equipped and protected.
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