Data breaches can harm your business, cost you money and trust. Let’s look at how to prevent a data breach from happening.
What is a Data Breach?
A data breach occurs when someone steals information, such as names, emails, or credit card numbers. This can be bad for your customers and your business.
Why should you care about data breaches?
Data breaches are terrible occurrences that can cost you money. Perhaps your customers will stop trusting you, or you may even be fined. It is vital to try to prevent them from occurring in the first place.
How do you prevent a data breach?
Here are 10 steps to help keep your data safe:
1. Use strong passwords
Use long, complex passwords that are hard to guess, including letters, numbers, and symbols. Do not use the same password for all of your accounts.
2. Update your software
Always update your computer programs. Updates usually patch security holes so it’s best to have your computer set to update automatically.
3. Train your employees
Educate your employees on data security. Teach them how to identify fake emails and not to click on suspicious links.
4. Use encryption
Encryption scrambles your data; only people with a unique key can read it. Use encryption on essential and sensitive information.
5. Limit access to data
Not everyone needs to know everything. Only give people access to what they need for their work.
6. Create backups of your data
Create copies of your important information and keep them in a safe location. This will help in case anyone steals or destroys your data.
7. Use a firewall
A firewall acts like a guard for your computer, helping to block bad things from getting inside. Always keep your firewall turned on.
8. Be careful with emails
Almost every data breach starts with a trick email. Don’t open emails from people you don’t know, and never click on links unless you are sure they are safe. You can hover over email links to see the actual address or even better, go directly to the mentioned website instead of via a link.
9. Protect your Wi-fi
Use a strong Wi-Fi password. Do not leave the default password on, and update your Wi-Fi password frequently.
10. Have a plan
Prepare a plan in case of a data breach.
Know whom to contact and what you should do. Do a practice drill so you are ready if there is an intrusion.
Even with good plans, data breaches can still happen. If one does, take action quickly and inform your customers about the breach as soon as possible.
Fix the problem that led to the breach. Then, use what you learned from that mistake to make your security better.
At what frequency should security be checked?
Review your security at least once a month to keep it up to date. New dangers emerge constantly, and staying informed about the most up-to-date ways of keeping data safe is essential.
Can small businesses be targets for data breaches?
Yes, small businesses can be targets. Actually, most hackers target small businesses because they perceive their security level to be low. Whatever the size, make sure your business is prepared.
How much does it cost to prevent a data breach?
Preventing data breaches may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it is less expensive than fixing a breach after it has happened. Consider this insurance for your data; thus, the cost is well worth keeping your business safe.
Stay Safe and Secure
Data safety is very important; it keeps your business and customers safe. Take these steps to prevent data breaches and always be on guard against new threats.
If you need help, ask the experts. We can ensure that your data stays secure. Contact us for more information today!