Data Leak Prevention: How To Prepare For A Cyberattack

Summary: This concise blog examines how SMBs can protect their hard-earned data and be prepared for the possibility of a cyberattack. If you need to step up your cyber security posture, contact DIGIGUARD CYBER SECURITY at 833-33-CYBER (833-332-9237) or visit www.DIGIGUARDsecurity.com to schedule a cyber risk analysis.

Today’s cyber security can no longer be an afterthought for SMBs. Cybercrime has evolved and grown over the years. Since the pandemic, the number of cyberattacks has risen by more than 400%. Furthermore, studies have shown that 60% of SMBs struck by an attack go out of business within six months. Therefore, small businesses must take cyber security very seriously. They must continuously monitor and upgrade their security postures as new attacks are developed and launched. SMBs must not fall for the misconception that hackers don’t care about small businesses. Ironically, the situation is the opposite: hackers attack SMBs because they are generally less prepared than larger companies. Large corporations have IT departments and sizable budgets. Smaller businesses might be unable to afford an IT staff and often have little or no budget for cyber security. If only they knew how much is on the line.

How To Know If You’ve Been Hacked

Do you know how to tell if your business has been attacked? Here are some signs that you need to rethink your IT budget:

• Weak Network Security – The sanctity of your company’s network is paramount because that is where most cyberattacks are launched. All your workstations are networked. You probably have remote employees connected to your network and the internet. Therefore, if your network is breached, everyone is at risk of attack.
• Frequent Cyber Incidences – Even the slightest data leak or breach can be disastrous for your business. Private data is a precious commodity. Sloppy protection, including unsecured networks and old firewall rules, are open doors to hackers.
• Slowing of Processes – If your bootup takes progressively longer and applications freeze or don’t function efficiently, it could be a sign you’ve fallen victim to a cyberattack.

What Can I Do To Prevent Getting Hacked?

Fortunately, some protective measures can be taken and become part of your business’s cyber security best practices:

• Lock Down WiFi Networks – It is essential to secure your WiFi network. We highly recommend using unique, multi-character, difficult-to-guess passwords and encryption protocols. Changing your router credentials several times per year is also a best practice. Creating a Guest Network separate from your business's operational network is a prudent choice for extra security from visitor attacks.
• Install Top-Ranked Antivirus Software – Although antivirus software is no longer the one-and-done solution it once was, it is still a crucial layer of security that continuously monitors for threats and automatically updates its virus definitions.
• Conduct Security Audits – Regular, scheduled cyber security audits can help identify potential vulnerabilities in your network’s infrastructure. As cyberattacks can be deadly to your SMB, you should consider engaging IT professionals to perform a cyber risk analysis and help you better understand what your company needs to achieve a superior level of cyber protection.
• Install a Robust Firewall and Intrusion Detection – A firewall is one of your computer network's first lines of defense. It is not something on which to economize. Install a premium firewall and an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) to help monitor your network and report suspicious activity. Cyber security requires many layers of defenses, and the quality of each layer matters.
• Update, Update, Update! – It is imperative to keep operating systems and software updated. Many updates contain important security fixes and enhancements. Older operating systems and software applications can gradually make your network more vulnerable to cyber threats. As time passes, you will have to upgrade and purchase new software and hardware before your system becomes unsupportable. Cybercriminals prey upon the weakest networks because they’re easy targets. When possible, SMBs should transition to cloud-based solutions that can provide better security, easier updating and turn-key maintenance.
• Use Strong Password Across All Platforms – Weak passwords and password security make hackers very happy. Bad actors love it when we use simple passwords repeatedly over a long time. Cybercriminals have all the time they need to continuously run algorithms that can piece together enough of your life to guess your dog’s name or wedding anniversary. Complex passwords are the way to go. To make password generation and storage safer, here are some steps to take:
  • Install a Reputable Password Manager – Good password managers are multi-tools. They can generate random, multi-character, unique passwords containing upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and special characters. Also, password managers can securely store all your passwords and prevent you from reusing passwords.
  • Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – MFA requires at least two user authentication methods. In one common two-factor authentication strategy, a verification code is sent to another device via text or email. Users must retrieve the code and enter it to obtain access. More high-tech authentications include optical and fingerprint scanning.
  • Conduct Cyber Security Best Practices Training For All Employees – Unfortunately, humans are the weakest link in any computer network. Hackers count on laziness, complacency, impulsivity and lack of training to help launch their attacks via emails, texts and embedded malicious links. They love untrained SMB employees who are ignorant of security protocols and unaware of how cyberthieves can manipulate them. Detailed cyber security training and protocols must be established and updated as necessary. Everyone in your company, from C-level to new hires, must be fully trained. In addition, every employee should receive follow-up training as new cyber challenges arise.

For many SMBs, operating the business requires most of their time, money and other resources. They just don’t have the bandwidth to perform appropriate cyber security tasks. As 43% of new cyberattacks are on small businesses, it is worth an SMB’s budget to hire cyber security professionals to ensure they have the best possible cyber protection.