Store Your Data Wisely
Hardware that can be stolen or hacked easily should not be the source of all your company’s data. Is all of your information stored on-site or on a cloud platform? Who oversees data management, security and protection? Know who has access to all of your business’s most critical files, and ensure that there is a hierarchy in place to prevent unauthorized access. Every computer in your office should be well-equipped with a firewall, anti-virus protection and anti-malware software.
Centralize Your Documents
Being a type of software, a documentation management tool can connect computers in your network, giving you greater insight into what is shared, stored, sent and received. It also reduces paper waste, which makes it a great asset to your office’s green initiative. Documentation management software is also more secure than relying on individual computers to store various files; they ensure you always have access to important information and offer broader protection through user tracking. You will be able to view edits people make to files, review previous versions of documents and have a comprehensive profile of all the documentation your office and customers utilize.
Use Secure Passwords
Hackers can be external or internal; there are many employees who appropriate company information and use it to commit fraud; rather than granting everyone easy access to your files, make sure that you set secure passwords and only provide them to relevant personnel. Employees should not be able to easily log into one another’s computers or access information outside of their sector. Password management software can keep all your company’s passwords in a secure location, ensuring that you always know how to access something and make modifications whenever you want. Having an MSP password reset can protect your managed server, which is integral for enterprises and corporations. Talk to your IT department about password security. They can provide tips on what types of passwords are best for each device and software as well as how to keep track of them.
Have Personal Devices Assessed Prior to Entering the Workplace
While many companies allow employees to work from their own laptops, you should have each one carefully evaluated by a qualified IT security expert before they are able to freely use it at work. Personal computers can introduce viruses to your office network, or they could be used to hack your system and collect data completely unbeknownst to you. Every personal device brought into the workplace should have an IT-approved anti-virus software and secure password protection.
Train Employees to Identify Potential Threats
Every worker should be educated on the basics of cybersecurity. Whether it’s regular meetings or a dedicated training class, familiarize them with common terminology, and provide them with tips on how to identify a security breach. There should also be a response protocol set in place that informs employees what to do when they suspect their computer or the office’s network has been compromised. Whether it’s a combination of escalating to a manager, legal and compliance, or HR department, beyond preventative strategies, your office’s cybersecurity policy should also guide employees on how to quickly safeguard their own files and include a recovery response plan. Quarterly meetings with your IT team can update staff on any upgrades or changes to ensure your office is always safe and up to date for every precaution.