Cybersecurity is crucial for companies of all sizes, but small and medium-sized businesses are often the most vulnerable to cyber attacks. In 2021, 82% of ransomware attacks were against businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees. Business owners and managers must be aware of common cybersecurity mistakes and take steps to avoid them.
Here are the top 10 bad habits businesses should avoid regarding cyber security.
- Failing to implement strong passwords. Passwords are the first defence against cyber attacks, yet many businesses still use weak and easily guessed passwords. In fact, according to NordPass, the most commonly used password in 2022 was “password.”
- Neglecting to install software updates and patches. Software updates and patches are often released to fix security vulnerabilities, but many businesses fail to install them. This can open your business to cyber attacks, as hackers can exploit known vulnerabilities to gain access to your systems.
- Not regularly backing up important data. In the event of a cyber attack, it’s crucial to have a recent backup of your important data. But according to a survey by Carbonite, only 43% of small businesses regularly back up their data. This is a dangerous habit that can lead to costly data loss.
- Failing to train employees on cybersecurity best practices. Human error is one of the most common causes of data breaches. 91% of cyber attacks begin with a Spear Phishing attempt. Your business is at serious risk if your staff aren’t trained on what to look out for.
- Using unsecured networks or public Wi-Fi. Unsecured networks and public Wi-Fi can be breeding grounds for hackers. It is easy for a hacker to mimic public Wi-Fi or hack into unsecured networks.
- Not having a disaster recovery plan in place. A disaster recovery plan is essential for any business. It can help you quickly and effectively respond to a cyber attack. Unfortunately, only 1 in 4 small businesses reported having a disaster recovery plan in place.
- Not monitoring for suspicious activity on company networks. Monitoring your company’s network for suspicious activity is crucial for detecting and preventing cyber attacks. However, many businesses don’t have the resources to monitor their networks 24/7, which can leave them vulnerable to attacks.
- Not implementing multi-factor authentication. Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your login process. Requiring users to provide two or more forms of identification can help prevent hackers from gaining access to your systems, even if they have a valid password.
- Failing to secure mobile devices and laptops properly. Mobile devices and laptops are often the weakest links in a business’s cybersecurity; they are usually the least protected and the most likely to be left behind when a staff member is out on the road.
- Not regularly reviewing and updating security policies and procedures. Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, and it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest threats and best practices. It’s crucial to review and update your security policies and procedures regularly.
Running a business is hard enough, but trying to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity can feel like an impossible task. But don’t worry; you’re not alone! Surety IT, the award-winning Brisbane-based MSP, is here to take the burden of IT management and cyber security off your shoulders.
With our expert team, we’ll make sure your IT runs as smoothly as honey on silk and your business is protected from cyber attacks with a tailored cyber security strategy. Don’t let cyber security stress you out any longer.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!
