Cyber-attacks are a real threat to your business. As many as 88% of companies fear becoming vulnerable to an attack. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, in 2020, cyber-attacks will cost businesses $2.7 billion.
Fortunately, there are ways small business owners like yourself can protect themselves.
Learn about common threats
Before you can protect yourself against cyber-attacks, you must know what to fight against. The most common types of cyber-attacks include malware and phishing. Malware refers to any malicious software. Viruses and ransomware fall under the category of malware. While viruses can give criminals access to your system, ransomware infects your computer for a criminal to demand a ransom.
When cybercriminals phish, they often send an email from what looks like a legitimate organization. Most emails will tell the user to open a link; when they open it, it contains malicious code that infects the computer. Other phishing scams entice a user to use his or her log-in information. Once the user inputs the information, the criminal can use it.
Set up security measures
If you do not focus on your business’s network, you have a higher chance of falling victim to various schemes and criminal activity. Make sure you have a secure network and keep your antivirus software up to date. You and your staff can also go through cybersecurity training to learn how to protect the system by spotting suspicious emails, avoiding sketchy downloads and maintaining good cyber habits.
No matter your risk assessment, always back up all of your critical data. Make sure you back it up on a regular basis in case a cyber attack occurs.
