Essential Cybersecurity for Your Business: A Must for Safety
Even businesses with robust cybersecurity measures in place are not immune to cyberattacks. However, the risk of a breach is significantly reduced compared to companies that neglect basic cybersecurity practices. Cybersecurity breaches often happen due to common and avoidable vulnerabilities, which is why understanding and implementing basic cybersecurity protocols is essential for the safety and success of any organization.
Too often, businesses fall into the trap of leaving all cybersecurity responsibilities to their IT team, thinking, “I’m not an expert in cybersecurity, that’s what I pay my IT provider for.” While this may sound reasonable, it’s only effective if business leaders actively follow the advice and recommendations given by their IT provider. If advice goes ignored, no amount of expertise on the part of the IT team can fully shield the business from harm.
The Importance of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Take, for example, multi-factor authentication (MFA). Studies show that MFA can prevent 99% of identity-based cyberattacks, yet many companies refuse to implement this simple, yet powerful, security measure, despite the urging of their IT provider. MFA adds an additional layer of protection by requiring not just a password but also another form of verification, such as a code sent to a mobile device. This means even if a hacker steals your password, they can’t access your system without this second layer of verification.
Think of it this way: your bank requires MFA to protect sensitive financial information, and your business should do the same to protect its own critical data. Whether you store customer information, employee data, or proprietary business details, adding MFA significantly enhances security and drastically reduces your chances of being breached.
Common, Avoidable Cybersecurity Mistakes
Most cybersecurity breaches happen due to a few easily avoidable issues. The good news is that taking care of these vulnerabilities requires only minimal effort but offers significant protection. Here are some of the most common and overlooked issues:
Slow Patching and Software Updates: Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities in a system. When businesses delay or neglect to install updates, they leave their systems exposed to attacks. Hackers actively look for unpatched systems, knowing that outdated software often has unprotected entry points. By ensuring timely updates, businesses can effectively close these security holes.
Open Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Ports: Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) allows employees to access their work computers from remote locations. However, if RDP ports are left open without proper safeguards, it creates a vulnerable entry point for cybercriminals. You don’t need to understand all the technical jargon, but you should ask your IT provider about ensuring these ports are secured or closed if not in use.
Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA is an additional layer of security that requires users to verify their identity through a secondary method, such as a text message or app-based code. It only takes a few seconds to complete the second step, but it could prevent weeks of costly downtime, financial loss, and reputational damage in the event of a breach.
No GEO-IP Blocking: If your business does not operate in certain regions, such as Russia, China, or other high-risk areas, you can block access from those countries. This is a simple measure that significantly reduces the risk of international hacking attempts. Your IT provider can help you set up GEO-IP blocking to prevent potential threats from these regions from accessing your network.
Listen to Your IT Provider
Cybersecurity may seem like a daunting and complex field, but following a few basic, common-sense practices can greatly reduce the risk of an attack. The best way to protect your business is to prioritize these basic cybersecurity measures and follow the advice of your IT provider. In most cases, your IT team is not trying to sell you unnecessary services; rather, they are working to protect your business, its reputation, and their own reputation as a trusted service provider.
When your IT provider recommends tools like MFA or security patches, they are acting in your best interest. Cybercriminals evolve rapidly, and your IT team is your best defense against them. However, their advice only works if it is implemented. Skipping updates, ignoring MFA, or leaving vulnerable ports open leaves the door wide open for hackers.
Get a Cybersecurity Audit
If you’re unsure about the state of your company’s cybersecurity, it’s always a good idea to get an audit. A quick 30-minute call with a cybersecurity expert can highlight any glaring vulnerabilities and provide actionable steps to improve your security posture. Many breaches are avoidable with just a few simple measures. Don’t wait for an attack to happen before you recognize the importance of essential cybersecurity for your business. Reach out now to schedule a consultation and protect your business before it’s too late.