If cyber security isn’t on your business’ list of top priorities, should you be worried? We think so. As cyber attacks grow in number and severity, keeping your business’ information safe is essential. Even if you’re not super technically minded, there are some key steps you can take to secure your data. We’ll explain what they are and give you a brief overview of what cyber security is.
What Is Cyber Security?
The term cyber security refers to the protection put in place to prevent online attacks from others of your information. You can think of a cyber criminal as an online burglar. They try to gain access to your information using internet connected systems. This can be done in multiple ways, including:
- Ransomware – you are stopped from using your computer system by malicious software unless you pay a random
- Scams – you are tricked or manipulated into giving away money, personal or financial information
- Unauthorised access – someone deliberately accesses your online information without your permission
- Phishing – an email scam where they pretend to be someone else to get you to share personal information with them
- Online identity theft – when someone gets personal information from a source and then uses it
- Insider threat – when someone from inside your business uses insider knowledge to get access to your information
- Malware – software which harms a computer system
- Credential dumps – someone takes passwords and email addresses, then publishes these online to be used by others
It is the responsibility of an individual business to put cyber security systems in place to prevent unauthorised access and use of all information.
7 Cyber Security Business Tips
If you leave your doors unlocked and windows open, people will take advantage of you. The same goes for cyber security. Without protection in place for your business, you’ll leaving your business vulnerable to cyber-attacks. However, by taking a few steps, you can secure your data and reduce the likelihood of things happening:
- Keep software up to date. Automatic updates make this a breeze
- Use two factor authentications when accessing data, such as needing a password and a code sent by text
- Do regular back-ups of your data, so if an attack does occur, you’ve still got access to your information
- Use unique passwords and update them regularly
- Install antivirus software and scan your devices regularly
- Never send personal details or passwords through unsecured emails
- Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments in emails unless you completely trust the source
CERT NZ is a website run by the NZ Government which offers plenty of advice on implementing cyber security practices, as well as what to do if you fall victim of one. When working with us, you can rest assured in knowing that our cloud based accounting systems offer two factor authentications, keeping your information safe and sound. Get in touch and let’s chat!