Cyberattacks are happening with increasing frequency. A report by Microsoft shows that 600 million cyberattacks happen per day. Despite what many might think, small businesses are not too small to be noticed by hackers. In fact, with limited IT resources and tighter budgets, they often become the easiest targets. If you believe antivirus software alone is enough to protect your business, it’s time to rethink your cybersecurity strategy.
This blog outlines critical cybersecurity layers that small businesses must have above antivirus software. From firewalls to staff training, it provides a definitive road map to defend against changing threats. Partnering with the right IT solutions provider gives you protection that is customized and administered, allowing you time to focus on expanding your business.
Small businesses generally lack the same level of cybersecurity defenses as big organizations. Valuable customer data and business intelligence combined with an absence of strong defenses can make them an enticing target for hackers. One breach can result in lost profits, a bad reputation, and expensive recovery procedures. These financial burdens can be so significant that some small companies cannot recover.
That's why having a strong multi-layered defense in place is important.
A firewall is like a gatekeeper between the internal network of your business and the external world (the internet). It monitors all incoming and outgoing traffic and determines what passes through according to security procedures.
A basic firewall blocks simple threats, but small businesses will need an enterprise-class firewall with features like intrusion prevention, malware, and filtering of content.
These firewalls not only stop bad traffic but also provide real-time monitoring and in-depth reports, so you remain a step ahead of danger.
Select a firewall solution that can be tailored to your business needs and has an intuitive interface so that your personnel will not be bogged down by complexities.
An antivirus software scans your devices periodically for malicious files, spyware, ransomware, and other dangerous software and deletes or blocks them if it finds anything malicious, so your system or data will not be harmed.
Research shows that 6 out of 10 businesses have already suffered ransomware attacks this year.
Though antivirus software remains a critical tool, it's not reliable on its own.
Today's advanced cyberattacks are very evasive and slide past detection by traditional antivirus methods. Depending on antivirus software alone would be like securing your front door but keeping the windows open.
Select antivirus software like Avast and many other trusted vendors that continuously update their threat databases and provide functionality such as behavior monitoring and automatic remediation.
Weak passwords are one of the easiest methods used by hackers to get inside business systems.
Here are a few simple pointers to keep in mind when setting your passwords to keep your accounts secure:
To help secure and manage multiple passwords, make use of a reputable password manager such as Dashlane.
The strongest password is not invincible if someone gets hold of it. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a second step of verification in the form of a temporary verification code received on your phone, or a fingerprint scan.
Why is it necessary?
Multi-factor authentication significantly minimizes the threat of unauthorized entry. If a person guesses or obtains your password, they will still be unable to access it without the second factor.
Implementing MFA on common platforms like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, and on most bank services, is easy and rapid. It is among the best ways small businesses can secure themselves without much effort or expenditure.
Cyber attackers usually take advantage of vulnerabilities in old software. Hackers scan for unpatched systems and proceed to attack those weaknesses.
Your operating systems, software applications, and firmware must be kept up to date. Updates generally carry security patches to close loopholes that attackers can take advantage of.
Enable automatic updates where possible, or establish a schedule to ensure everything stays current. This simple practice can prevent many breaches before they happen.
Technology will not stop cyberattacks on its own. Employees happen to be the weakest link because attackers will utilize methods of social engineering such as phishing emails as a method of tricking individuals into giving passwords or opening dangerous links.
Regular cybersecurity training teaches your employees how to spot scams, protect sensitive data, and properly respond to malicious behavior.
Promote a security awareness culture through reminders and simulated attacks as well as good behavior reinforcement.
Being secure in your cybersecurity stance means you're not just thinking about antivirus software. Adding firewalls, good passwords, multi-factor authentication, regular updates, and educated employees to the mix makes your business a much harder target for criminals.
Need professional help implementing these essential layers? Explore our comprehensive cybersecurity solutions designed for small businesses that fit your budget and risk profile.
Protect your business before it’s too late — get started today with Vudu Consulting, experts who understand your needs.
