Understanding cybersecurity basics and practicing them in your business can greatly reduce the risk of a cyber attack. Below are tips to protect your files and devices, your wireless network and what you can do to create a culture of security at work.
Protecting Your Files & Devices
- Update your software. Update your software, including apps, web browsers and operating systems regularly. If possible, set updates to automatically occur.
- Secure your files. It's important to back files up offline, on an external drive or in the cloud. Be sure your paper files are stored securely too.
- Use passwords on devices. Always use passwords on phones, laptops and tablets, and do not leave them unattended in public places.
- Encrypt devices. Encrypt devices and any other media that contains sensitive personal information, including phones, tablets, laptops, removable drives and cloud storage solutions.
- Use multi-factor authentication. Require multi-factor authentication, or additional steps beyond logging in with a password, to access areas of your network with sensitive information. For example, use a temporary code on a smartphone that's inserted into an unknown computer.
Protecting Your Wireless Network
- Secure your router. Change the default name and password after initial set-up, turn off remote management and log out as the administrator once the router is set up.
- Use WPA2 Encryption. Make sure the router offers WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Encryption protects information sent over your network so it can't be accessed by outsiders.
Create a Culture of Security at Work
- Require strong passwords. Passwords should be a mix of at least 12 numbers, symbols and capital and lowercase letters. Don't reuse passwords or share them with anybody via phone, text message or by email. Limit the number of unsuccessful log-in attempts.
- Train your staff. Create a schedule of regular employee training to update them of new risks and vulnerabilities.
- Make a plan. Have back up plan for saving data, running your business and notifying your customers if a breach occurs.
Want to test your cybersecurity knowledge? Test your understanding by taking this short quiz!
Cindy is a Senior Vice President / Operations Director for Heartland Bank. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Outside of the bank, Cindy enjoys spending time with her family and going to garage sales and flea markets.
