Today businesses continue to rely more on technology to operate and defending against cyber-attacks is critical. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, and businesses are increasingly becoming targets for attacks. The National Cyber Security Alliance reports stated that, one in five businesses have become victims of cybercrime. That is because many businesses make common mistakes with their cyber security, leaving them vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

Here are 10 common mistakes that businesses make and let’s discuss how to avoid them.

• Password too weak:

Weak passwords are easily hacked, guessed, or cracked. Businesses should enforce a strong password policy that requires employees to create complex passwords or passphrases. It should be long, strong, and unique and change them frequently. A password manager can be used to keep them secure and remembered.

• No Trained Employees:

To keep your business safe digitally, empowering your employees about how to use technology safely is an important aspect. Without proper training, employees may fall for phishing scams or inadvertently download malware. Businesses should provide regular cyber security training to their employees to educate them on best practices for staying safe online.

• No mobile security:

Mobile devices are becoming very easy targets for cybercriminals. Businesses should make sure they have policies in place to secure mobile devices that connect to their network.

• No software and system updates:

Cybercriminals are always coming up with new ways to attack, so it’s important to update your software and systems. Updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities.  Along with software, hardware must be updated as well and older devices are ideal access points for data breaches.

• Failing to continuously monitor cyber security:

Many businesses Ignore the importance of cyber attack monitoring which can lead to severe consequences, including financial losses and damage to reputation. By the time businesses realize they are under attack, it may be too late to prevent the loss of sensitive data or damage to critical systems. Businesses should implement monitoring tools that can detect and alert them to cyber threats in real-time.

• No implementation of access control:

Implementing strong access control measures is very helpful to keep your network safe. Access controls limit access to sensitive data and systems to only those employees who need it. Without it, can make it easier for unauthorized individuals to gain access to sensitive information and systems, increasing the risk of a cyber-attack. Implementing access controls is a critical component of cyber security.

• Failing to backup data:

Without proper backing up, businesses may not be able to recover from a cyber-attack or other disaster. Make sure your business has a regular backup schedule in place and that backups are stored off-site. Leveraging cloud technology, or using a secured offsite location will serve you well.

• Not Using 2-Factor Authentication:

Passwords alone can no longer protect online accounts because so many people use the same password across multiple sites and services. It is imperative to take extra steps beyond passwords whenever possible, such as adding two-factor authentication via SMS text message.

• Not taking cyber security seriously:

Perhaps the biggest mistake businesses make with their cyber security is not taking it seriously enough. Cyber-attacks can have a devastating impact on businesses, both financially and reputationally. Businesses should prioritize cyber security and make sure it is a part of their overall risk management strategy.

• Assuming It Will Not Happen To You:

Another critical mistake business owners make is assuming it won’t happen to them. Cybercriminals are always on the lookout for new targets, and you can be sure they won’t ignore your small business.

In Conclusion

Cyber security is a critical component of any business operation. By avoiding the above common mistakes, businesses can significantly reduce their risk of cyber security threats.

Along with the precautions, Companies should also continuously use strong cyber security solutions to be prepared to respond to them when a breach occurs.

The NetworkFort continuously assesses computer security threats and vulnerabilities to the client’s information system to reduce potential damage from such events. NetworkFort is a reliable and proactive cybersecurity solution that provides a comprehensive platform for network security, monitoring, and detection by deploying network and data traffic analysis.

It is dedicated to continuously assessing and mitigating potential computer security threats and vulnerabilities to protect our clients’ valuable information systems. If you want to ensure that your organization is protected from cyber threats and vulnerabilities, please do not hesitate to contact us today to learn more about NetworkFort.