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As helpful as technology can be in propelling businesses forward, it can also be detrimental when it opens you up to a world of risks and malicious attacks. It is absolutely essential for contemporary businesses to take cybersecurity seriously to prevent harmful losses and data breaches.
Here are five essential tips to help you avoid information leaks:
1. Use secure passwords and 2FA
Strong passwords are essential for keeping your online presence secure. Passwords are often the first line of defense that protects your data. To make passwords stronger, it’s best to use a combination of numbers, symbols, capital letters, and different words. Use unique passwords for each account to ensure that if one is hacked, the others won’t be affected.
Require employees to use two-factor authentication (2FA) as an additional security measure. With 2FA, you’ll be required to input your password and a unique code that is sent to your mobile device. This can prevent hackers from gaining access to your accounts even when a password is compromised.
The Value of Password Management Tools
Implementing strong passwords and two-factor authentication is essential, but managing numerous complex credentials across multiple platforms can be overwhelming. This is where password management tools become invaluable for both individuals and organizations.
Password managers offer a centralized, secure solution for storing all your credentials. They can:
- Generate random, complex passwords that are virtually impossible to crack
- Auto-fill credentials on websites and applications, reducing the friction of using unique passwords
- Encrypt your password database with a single master password
- Securely share passwords among team members without exposing the actual credentials
- Alert you to potentially compromised passwords after data breaches
- Enforce password policies across your organization
Enterprise-grade password managers provide additional features like user permission controls, password usage audits, and seamless integration with single sign-on (SSO) solutions. These tools significantly reduce the likelihood of password reuse—a common vulnerability that allows attackers to compromise multiple accounts after a single breach.
When selecting a password manager, prioritize solutions that use end-to-end encryption and have undergone independent security audits. The small investment in a quality password management system pays dividends in enhanced security posture and reduced risk of credential-based attacks.
2. Use private keyboards
Hackers’ technology has gotten so sophisticated that they can now mine data using keystrokes. So, even if the actual information is encrypted, they can gather everything that your employees are typing. For this, it’s best to install private keyboard software, which prevents any typed entries from being collected.
You should also have company members install an iOS and Android SDK keyboard, which will provide the same function for their mobile devices. This can also be set to block files from being copied and pasted onto messaging platforms via mobile devices.
3. Install antivirus software
Antivirus software is a must-have when it comes to cyber security. It can help guard against any malware or viruses that can put your system at risk. However, not all antivirus software is created equal.
Invest in software that uses “real-time” protection and is legitimacy built for enterprises. Proper software suites will be able to isolate malicious code without ruining your actual data or hindering productivity.
4. Use encrypted networks
Wired and wireless networks without encryption can make your business network susceptible to hackers and other data thefts. When you let your data pass through unencrypted lines, you are basically transferring data free for anyone to take if they interfere.
It is basically like leaving your data on a fishing line for malicious users to snatch up. When working with online platforms, make sure they have Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption.
5. Provide basic Cybersecurity training to employees
- Even with all the right software and planning, your downfall can come down to an employee’s mistake. After all, the number one cause of data breaches is still human error.
- You don’t have to get everyone an IT degree, but it’s good to have a short briefing on good cyber practices.
- Establish clear policies to encourage employees to always use strong passwords and turn off their devices when they are not in use.
- Train employees on keeping confidential information and policies on the use of social media. Conduct mock phishing tests to teach employees not to fall for fake emails as well as avoid opening suspicious links and attachments.
- Finally, review cybersecurity policies and protocols on a regular basis so that employees are always updated.
6. Develop an incident response plan
Despite your best preventive efforts, security breaches can still occur. Having a well-defined incident response plan is crucial for minimizing damage when information leaks happen.
A comprehensive incident response plan should include:
- Detection procedures: Implement monitoring systems that can quickly identify unusual activities or potential breaches. This includes regular system scans, log analysis, and security alerts.
- Containment strategy: Define immediate steps to isolate affected systems and prevent the spread of the breach. This might involve disconnecting compromised devices from networks, changing access credentials, or temporarily shutting down certain services.
- Evidence collection: Document all aspects of the breach, including affected systems, compromised data, and suspicious activities. This information is essential for forensic analysis and potential legal proceedings.
- Communication protocols: Establish clear guidelines for notifying relevant stakeholders, including management, IT staff, affected customers, and when necessary, regulatory authorities. Transparency is key to maintaining trust.
- Recovery procedures: Outline steps to restore systems and data from clean backups, patch vulnerabilities, and gradually return to normal operations after verifying security.
- Post-incident analysis: Conduct thorough reviews after any security incident to understand what happened, why it happened, and how to prevent similar breaches in the future.
Regular testing of your incident response plan through simulated breach scenarios will help ensure that everyone knows their responsibilities and can act quickly when a real incident occurs.
7. Secure your cloud services
Cloud computing has transformed the way businesses operate, but it also introduces unique security challenges. The shared responsibility model means while cloud providers secure the infrastructure, you’re responsible for protecting your data and access points.
Implement strong cloud access controls
Limit access to your cloud resources using the principle of least privilege. Only grant employees permissions they need for their specific roles. Regularly audit user accounts and remove unnecessary access rights or dormant accounts.
Encrypt data in the cloud
Enable encryption for all sensitive data stored in cloud platforms. This includes data at rest in storage services and databases, as well as data in transit between your systems and the cloud. Most major cloud providers offer built-in encryption options that can be easily configured.
Properly configure cloud services
Misconfigurations are among the leading causes of cloud security incidents. Implement these practices:
- Turn off public access to cloud storage buckets unless absolutely necessary
- Use security groups and network ACLs to limit traffic
- Enable logging and monitoring for all cloud resources
- Regularly scan for security vulnerabilities and misconfigurations
Use a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
Consider implementing a CASB solution to gain visibility into your cloud usage and enforce security policies across multiple cloud services. CASBs can help identify shadow IT, protect sensitive data, and ensure compliance with security requirements.
Create a cloud security incident response plan
Develop procedures specifically for responding to cloud-related security incidents. This plan should include steps for identifying affected resources, isolating compromised systems, and coordinating with your cloud provider during a security event.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity is ever-evolving, so you need to stay up-to-date to strengthen your defenses. Simple implementations like a private keyboard and a backup server can already greatly increase your protection against information leaks.
Ultimately, it is up to you to use the right tools and properly train your employees on basic cybersecurity practices.
Fleksy provides the best keyboard technology for businesses using white-label practices and resources. Get in touch with us to protect your data and create unimaginable products.
