Common mistakes for IT security for SMEs

Contemporary business environments are controlled by digital applications. Features like IT tools and infrastructures allow SMEs to have much more freedom. However, they often make common mistakes in IT security. If you are looking for security to help protect your residence, then residential security services can provide you with a wide variety of security options.

That being said, it is not that straightforward, Unfortunately, if you lack the technical knowledge that is required to manage IT systems, then sensitive information becomes vulnerable. This will make your business an easy target for cyber-attacks. Here we have some of the common mistakes for IT security.

Read on for 8 simple ways SMEs get IT security wrong, and for useful tips to avoid these issues.

Keep security software up to date

Arguably, the first step any business should take is installing security software across all the IT hardware they have. Many businesses do remember to do this; however, it is also imperative to keep this software up to date. Make sure your security software is reliable and from an established brand, you cannot cut corners. Using reliable software will keep you, as well as your customers, safe. Businesses such as Google would need top-notch security software. Even smaller websites that focus more on finances, such as Ethereum code, need to make sure they have security against potential hackers.

This is especially true if you are in eCommerce, you need to ensure the safety of your client’s data as well. So, keep your systems and security software completely up to date.

IT training for your staff

A small business that has a small team of staff needs to ensure the training of every member of that team. It’s often the case that staff lacks basic training and knowledge for combating cyber attacks. Make sure to provide your colleagues with IT security training, this will help them stay safe online. If you don’t plan for this, it could cost you greatly. There are plenty of IT training providers with a range of courses to help your staff become IT savvy.

Mobile protection

Mobile technologies are constantly on the rise, and so are mobile cyber-attacks. The majority of consumers use mobile now and so strong security is needed to combat attacks. If you neglect to implement a mobile action plan, then you risk sensitive data being leaked. As well as this, mobile devices which are connected to your corporate network will also put your entire companies’ data at risk. Make sure staff password-protect their devices and encrypt all sensitive data.

Prevent access to your accounts

Criminals are not interested in the hardware nowadays, mostly. Instead, they are interested in the information inside. It is vital to password protect all business devices to prevent unauthorised access. Staff will each need their own personal account, with security. Having all sensitive data in one place will increase the risk.

Limit access to your data

Trust between colleagues is important, of course. However, that trust should not be given for access to sensitive data. The more people who have access to your data, the larger the risk of malware or corruption. Security will also be harder to manage, as you will have to have increased security for even more colleagues. So you should only provide the data needed for them to do their job while protecting the other data.

Secure your Wi-Fi network

This one sounds obvious, so it should go without saying. However, you’d be surprised by how many people forgo their Wi-Fi security. Your Wi-Fi network needs to be secure and encrypted, to prevent unauthorised access. Businesses often have their Wi-Fi network broadcasted to others nearby, or even don’t use a password. Always ensure your Wi-Fi is protected.

Firewall security

A firewall is a must-have defensive against malware and viruses. Before you start collecting data, you should have a firewall. Many businesses forget this vital software and it will make all the difference. Install a well-known firewall and you will greatly help your business. There are many great firewalls out there, so do some research and find the right one for your business.

Backing up data

When you are trying to build your online business, remember that “Data is King” Your number one priority for growth is your data. Regularly back up your data, this will help prevent data loss. You can create an automated backup schedule, and this will help ensure that you never lose data again.