Security threats and how businesses are handling them both online and off can often change. It is important to be mindful of securing both digital and physical business assets to prevent a cyber-attack or theft. Here are a few tips to help secure your business!
Create Strong Passwords
Having password-protected devices and requiring employees to create strong passwords could keep your digital information safer. Strong passwords typically include a mix of letters, numbers and special characters. Additionally, ensuring no password is the same across platforms/accounts and enabling two-factor authentication can help increase your business’s level of online protection.
Use Antivirus/Anti-malware Software
The Small Business Administration reports cyber-attacks are a growing threat for small businesses and the cost of cybercrimes reached $2.7 billion in 2018 alone. Installing antivirus and anti-malware software could help protect your devices in case of phishing attempts or other digital threats. According to the SBA, employees and emails are a leading cause of data breaches, so consider scheduling annual training or sending periodic emails to employees about safe digital practices.
Backup Data
Another way to prepare for a data breach or online attack is to back up your business data. Regularly backing up data on an internal network or a cloud-based service is recommended. Critical data could include documents, spreadsheets, databases, files, personal information and more. Regularly backing up data could help you recover quicker if the business does have a breach that corrupts the live data.
Prepare for Emergencies
Create a plan for different seasonal scenarios, like the possibility of a tornado, fire, snowstorm, flood, power outage, etc. to help keep your business prepared and assets secured. Post the emergency plans and evacuation routes in a visible location inside the business so that employees and customers can see the plans and safely exit or take shelter in the event of an emergency.
Protect from Liabilities
Accidents can happen, and one way to prepare your business for accidents is to add liability or umbrella insurance coverage. These coverage options provide protection for your business from potential lawsuits that could arise from accidents with customers or employees. You should also proactively reduce any potential accident risks on the business premises, including removing any tripping or slipping hazards, fixing entry stairs and stair railings, etc.
Install Security Systems
Another way to help secure a business is to set up security systems. Installing security cameras could help reduce theft and give you the opportunity to monitor inventory. Additionally, installing a burglar alarm and fire alarm could help keep employees and customers safe from potential dangers. Finally, consider using multiple locking mechanisms, including deadbolts for exterior doors.
Planning for the unexpected could save you time and money. We are here to be your partner in securing your business. Contact your OKFB agent to review your Commercial Insurance policy to ensure it is up-to-date to protect your business.