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8 Best Practices for Business Device Security
Why is cyber security getting more and more attention?
According to the International Monetary Fund, cyber attacks have been on the rise, and the risk of losses from cyber incidents for business companies has more than quadrupled since 2017.
Because of that, it is important to keep your business devices secure, whether you’re running a small startup or managing a large corporation.
Luckily, by following some straightforward security practices, you can significantly reduce these risks. Here are eight essential tips to ensure your business devices stay safe and sound.
- Keep Software Up-to-Date
Regularly updating your software is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your devices. Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit. Make sure your operating systems, applications, and antivirus programs are always up-to-date. Many updates are automatic, but it’s a good habit to manually check for updates occasionally to ensure you’re not missing any critical patches.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Password security is crucial. Avoid using simple or common passwords that can be easily guessed. Instead, create strong, unique passwords for each device and account. A strong password typically includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Consider using a password manager to keep track of all your passwords securely. This tool generates strong passwords and remembers them for you, reducing the risk of using the same password across multiple sites.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification beyond just a password. This might be a code sent to your phone or an authentication app. Even if a hacker manages to obtain your password, they would still need the second factor to gain access. Most major online services and business platforms support 2FA, so be sure to enable it wherever possible.
- Encrypt Sensitive Data
Encryption is a process that transforms your data into a code to prevent unauthorized access. If your device is lost or stolen, encryption helps ensure that the data on it remains secure.
However, considering the amount of business data we exchange online, securing only the data stored on your phone often isn’t enough. So, if you want to protect your online data and traffic, consider using a tool like VPN for Chrome that encrypts your internet connection, safeguarding your data from potential eavesdroppers and ensuring your online activities are private.
- Regularly Back Up Your Data
Data loss can occur for various reasons, from hardware failures to cyber-attacks.
Regular backups ensure that you can recover your information if something goes wrong. Back up your data to a secure cloud service or an external hard drive. Make sure these backups are encrypted and stored safely. Regularly test your backups to ensure they are working properly and that you can restore your data when needed.
- Implement Device Management Policies
If you manage a team, having clear device management policies is essential.
Define rules for using company devices, including security measures like password protection and software updates. Ensure all employees understand these policies and the importance of following them. Consider using mobile device management (MDM) solutions to monitor and manage company devices, which can help enforce security policies and remotely wipe data if a device is lost or stolen.
- Secure Your Network
Securing your network is vital for protecting your devices and data. Use strong passwords for your Wi-Fi network and ensure it is encrypted using WPA3, the latest and most secure encryption standard. Regularly update your router’s firmware and consider setting up a separate network for guest access. Implementing a firewall can also provide an additional layer of protection by blocking unauthorized access to your network.
Last but not least…
- Educate your Team
A well-informed team is your first line of defense against security threats.
Regularly educate your employees about security best practices, such as recognizing phishing emails and avoiding suspicious links. Conduct training sessions to keep everyone updated on the latest threats and how to handle them. Encouraging a security-conscious culture within your organization helps prevent accidental breaches caused by human error.
Keeping devices secure doesn’t have to be complicated
By following these simple practices you can significantly improve your device security and protect your business from potential threats.
Keep in mind that security is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. Stay vigilant, keep up with the latest security trends, and ensure that your practices evolve with the ever-changing digital trends. By doing so, you’ll create a safer environment for your business and give yourself peace of mind.
