In 2012 technology has become an essential part of daily life. The world of information technology has become a part of our lives and businesses. Because of this, the threat of internet predators has risen. With the lingering recession and a continuous fluctuating economy, individuals have found new and more sophisticated ways of taking what’s not theirs. According to an expert in identity theft protection eighty percent of business that experience a breach in their data system go bankrupt.
Protecting your business against cyber thieves has become as important as protecting you company against physical theft. The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse list several causes for security breaches such as hacking, malware, unintended disclosures, untrustworthy employees as well as lost or stolen properties. Here are some steps your company can take to protect its employees and its profit.
Identify Risk
Every company that relies on information technology should hire someone who can identify and resolve possible security risk. The individual should isolate risk and improve security measures in sensitive areas such as customer and employee information.
Minimize Risk
Companies with a large number of employees typically have large amounts of information stored in their systems. Find a way of safely storing large files of information into small folders or programs. The smaller the quantity of information the easier it is to protect.
Use Encryptions
Hackers are skilled computer thieves that recognize when information is not protected. By encrypting certain files you are not only protecting valuable information you are also showing possible crooks that you have up to date security over your data. This is very important when using mobile devices because your information is being transferred and exchanged wirelessly.
Train Employees
Create classes informing your employees on the proper ways of using email and other internet tools such as social networks. For example, when using such tools as Gmail you should always make sure that you see the “https” in the address bar. If you do not see the “https” the site is unsecure and you can bet that a potential hacker sees you.
Do Background Checks
Everyone wants to believe that the people working for them are innocent. This is not always true. Although most employees are trustworthy, you should not take a chance with individuals who have a history of theft or mischievous conduct. When hiring new talent you should always check references as well as criminal history, just to ensure the integrity of your company.
Update Software
Most businesses are smart enough to have anti-spyware and anti-virus software programmed into the system: however, as time goes by those software programs should be updated with the latest version. Hackers and thieves are constantly improving their methods; therefore, you should continue to improve your protections.
Protect your Property
Implement security measures such as locking cabinets and filing drawers that contain valuable equipment. Only give keys to upper management or employees that have a proven history of trustworthy behavior. Do daily inventory of laptops and other mobile devices. Have employees sign for equipment that belongs to the company. Properly dispose of papers and letters that contain valuable information.
Quality over Savings
Whether you outsource your security or use in-house personnel to protect your information, always use the best you can afford and not the run of the mill that is being sold at a discount. Although you may save a few dollars upfront, you run the risk of losing a great deal because your protection is subpar.
Like you home your company looks to you for protection. Always make sure your doors and windows are protected with quality firewalls and secure wireless connections. Never trust intruders and always trust your instincts.
About the Author:
Biljana is a tech blogger and freelance writer. His interests span from cloud computing and VPS to gadgets and gaming. He currently works for an IT services provider in Brisbane as well as writing for several blogs and publications.