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PAE
from weak or re-used passwords and remind
you to change them regularly.
11: Use a firewall
A firewall protects hardware as well as
software, which is a benefit to any company
with its own physical servers. A firewall also
works by blocking or deterring viruses from
entering your network. This is in contrast to
an antivirus which works by targeting the
software affected by a virus that has already
gotten through.
Ensuring a firewall is in place protects your
business’s network traffic – both inbound and
outbound. It can stop hackers from attacking
your network by blocking certain websites. It
can also be programmed so that sending out
sensitive data and confidential emails from
your company’s network is restricted.
Once your firewall is installed, remember to
keep it up-to-date. Check regularly that it has
the latest updates for software or firmware.
12: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A Virtual Private Network provides another
layer of security for your business. VPNs allow
employees to access your company’s network
securely when working remotely or travelling.
They do this by funnelling your data and IP
address through another secure connection
in between your own internet connection and
the actual website or online service you need
to access. They are especially useful when
using public internet connections – such as in
coffee shops, airports, or Airbnb’s – which can
be vulnerable to hackers. A VPN gives users
a secure connection which separates hackers
from the data they are hoping to steal.
8 September 2023
13: Guard against physical theft
While you need to be mindful of hackers trying
to breach your network, don’t forget that your
hardware can be stolen too. Unauthorized
individuals should be prevented from gaining
access to business devices such as laptops,
PCs, scanners, and so on. This may include
physically securing the device or adding a
physical tracker to recover the device in case
of loss or theft. Ensure all your employees
understand the importance of any data that
might be stored on their cell phones or laptops
when out and about.
For devices used by multiple employees,
consider creating separate user accounts
and profiles for additional protection. It’s also
a good idea to set up remote wiping – this
allows you to remotely delete the data on a
lost or stolen device.
14: Don’t overlook mobile devices
Mobile devices create security challenges,
especially if they hold sensitive information or
can access the corporate network. Yet they can
sometimes be overlooked when businesses
are planning their cybersecurity. Ask your
employees to password-protect their mobile
devices, install security apps, and encrypt their
data to stop criminals from stealing information
while the phone is on public networks. Be sure
to set reporting procedures for lost or stolen
phones and tablets.
15: Ensure third parties who deal with you
are also secure
Be wary of other businesses such as partners
or suppliers who may be granted access to
your systems. Make sure they are following
similar practices to you. Don’t be afraid to
check before you grant access to anybody.
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