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Take These Measures to Protect Against Common Threats

Privacy and security are two growing areas for small-business owners. Most businesses have at least some digital presence. Keeping your own data and the information provided by customers safe is crucial. Verizon recently reported there were 53,000 data incidents in 2018, including 2,216 confirmed data breaches. As a small-business owner, here are some measures you can take to help protect your company from these threats.

Install Anti-malware Software

Anti-malware software is designed to prevent various types of online attacks on your computer. Malware is a general term for a program that can harm your device. It could be a virus, phishing sites, ransomware, spyware, etc. Having this type of software in place is one of the most basic, yet very effective, ways to protect your business from digital threats. If you have more than one computer or device, you should get anti-malware software for all of them.

Update Your Software

Updating your existing software is another easy but effective measure you can take. When a software has an update, it can provide additional protection from malware. Sometimes, software might release a new patch. If a new patch is available, make sure to perform the update. It’s a good idea to turn on automatic updates so you don’t have to worry about manually updating all of your software.

Install a Firewall

A firewall helps block out connections that are unauthorized or harmful. Some computer systems may have a basic firewall, but consider getting a more substantial one for your business platforms. A more robust firewall can help protect your business from potential hazards.

Encrypt Data

Encrypting data just means no one can access your data without a password or other form of authorization. It’s another layer of defense if your computer gets hacked or someone tries to access it without your knowledge. Different encryption software options are available for your business to choose from.

Back Up Your Data

Backing up your data is essential if you encounter a cybersecurity threat. If something happens, you will be able to restore all your data quickly. Make sure your backed-up data is located somewhere outside of your computer. If your computer is compromised, at least then you will have a copy somewhere safe. You can back up your data on a physical storage device, or in the cloud. You can also go through a storage device company.

Train Your Employees

Sometimes a cybersecurity threat occurs when an employee makes a mistake. Informing your employees about best practices — such as educating them on what phishing e-mails look like and how to use different security measures your company employs — can help keep your business safe. Having an educational meeting or seminar can make a difference in the world of digital threats.

Hire a Professional

Hiring a professional to visit and assess your cybersecurity efforts can help reinforce your company’s defense. They can help you set up the types of protection your business may need. It’s never a bad idea to consult a professional, since they have expertise in the field.

Get Cyber Insurance

Because of the growing threat of data breaches, you may want to consider getting cyber insurance. This coverage helps protect your business in event of a data breach, loss of sensitive or personal data, and the legal matters that go along with information loss.

Bottom Line

Hopefully, all the methods mentioned above will prevent any data loss, but sometimes things happen that are out of your control. Talk to your insurance agent about cyber insurance and how it can help protect your business. u

This article first appeared on the blog of Encharter Insurance in Amherst; Visit www.encharter.com.