As the world moves increasingly online and companies save more and more of their crucial operating data digitally, it’s never been more important to secure your firm’s important files. These days, it’s almost impossible to think of a single company that doesn’t rely on – at least to some degree – the web, computers, and tech when it comes to their day-to-day operations.
It’s estimated around one in five Small to Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) fall victim to a security breach online – with an alarming 60% of those companies affected going bankrupt within six months thereafter.
However, the risks of compromised data aren’t just limited to online threats. Surprisingly (and somewhat sadly), threats can also exist internally from disgruntled employees or physical data leaks.
If you’re worried about the safety of your firm’s data and documents, below are some sensible steps you should take to increase the protection of your all-important files.
Outsource your IT
One of the easiest ways to improve the safety of your firm’s data is to outsource your digital resources to a cloud service provider. Cloud companies are highly skilled in setting up company networks and can also offer 24/7/365 backup, support and security.
Truth is, every time you or your staff log on, you open your company to a plethora of potential risks – whether that be by brute force attacks, compromised passwords or even just outwardly seemingly benign phishing attacks.
Moving your IT to a cloud provider is one of the best ways to lock down your company’s digital assets and gain the greatest protection.
Use access control within your firm’s premises
In recent years, one of the biggest threats that have faced companies of all sizes has been the danger lurking within from its staff. If you want to ensure your company reduces the risks of data compromise caused by employees, one of the best ways is to lock down your data and documents by installing access control systems. These mechanisms effectively lock out staff from areas of your building that contain sensitive or privileged information.
As a company owner, you likely already use access rights across your firm’s most sensitive digital data – so, really, there’s no reason you shouldn’t employ similar tactics with physical access.
Password protect important files and folders
It should go without saying, but using password protection for your most important corporate data is one of the simplest – yet most effective – ways to lock out unwanted intruders. You should also ensure you make backup copies of your most important data (and store them online) again with password protection. Regarding the point noted above about cloud service providers, most professional firms will offer these measures as part of their standard packages.
Educate employees
The vast majority of data breaches these days happen as a result of employee ignorance/negligence. Unfortunately, you could install the best online security available but, if your staff aren’t up to speed with the most common threats posed by cybercriminals, you’ll still run the risk of human error coming into play. To combat these dangers, you should ensure your workers are adequately trained to spot the most common tactics employed by online criminals so they can avoid accidentally putting your company at risk.
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