How to Protect Your Company From Cyber Crimes

So your business is finally online--you've got a stellar website up and all.

That's great, but you've also become susceptible to cyber crime! And many businesses don't have the in-house expertise on hand should an attack occur--so it's vital to protect your business!

Even though there are many technological safeguards you can take, the right infrastructure isn't enough to combat these villains. Small business owners, especially, have to create a secure culture between their employees and their clientele.

Here are some tips to protect your business from cyber crime!

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. 

   Determine your risks and identify weaknesses. Analyze your online and operating platforms to determine what's at risk. If your critical customer or accounting data is linked to the Web, that's a red flag for extra protection!

   Something as simple as making sure your antivirus and antispyware programs are up to date is a huge help. If you have multiple personnel on your computer systems, make sure they change their passwords every two months.

2. Back up information. This is essential because, should an attack or crash occur, you will still have critical data saved. It can cost thousands to recover such data if you don't take the simple step of regularly backing it up. You can choose a Web- or computer-based program for this--shop around and find what's best for you.

3. 

   Consider hiring as-needed help. It's always great to have technical expertise ready at the dial of your phone. Hiring a consultant may be a little pricy, but it's a great idea if you don't have an in-house team. A consultant can help make sure you have the right systems in place for protection and recovery, plus he or she will give you tips tailored to meet the needs of your business.

4. Call on your team. Another great idea is to require personnel to sign a security agreement. This written statement should mention that they will actively participants in helping to maintain a secure online environment. It's also great to let your clients know about this, because they'll feel safer too! According to data from Javelin Strategy and Research, about 85 percent of consumers said they would increase their shopping at a store known for good cyber security practices. Only 20 percent stated that they would shop at a store that had a recent data breach. You do the math there.

   Security systems may be costly but they're worth it in so many ways!

Tips & Warnings

• Educate your staff on consumer fraud and why it's important to you.

• Establish a contingency plan should an attack occur. (This is when it's great to have that consultant on hand. He or she can come in and already knows your business systems, so recovery will be easier.)

• Make sure to change your passwords for every user regularly. Never share passwords among personnel!