Running a successful business requires protecting against both internal and external threats. While external dangers like hackers and malware often come to mind first, insider risks like employee mistakes or theft can be just as damaging. Utilizing a combination of software solutions, best practices, and risk management strategies is key to securing your company from all angles.
Implement Cybersecurity Measures
Your first line of defense against external threats is cybersecurity tools and policies to guard against online threats. Common cybersecurity best practices include:
- Install comprehensive antivirus software on all devices and servers, use a firewall, and encrypt sensitive customer data.
- Require strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
- Establish security procedures like limiting file access and granting permissions only when necessary.
- Train employees on identifying phishing attempts, safe web use, and reporting suspicious activity.
- Keep all software updated and address vulnerabilities quickly.
- Back up data regularly.
Control Physical Access
One of the simplest ways to prevent data breaches from external threats is to exercise greater control over your workplace’s physical space. The following physical security measures can go a long way toward keeping bad actors away from your data:
- Use badge access doors, keep servers in locked rooms, and install surveillance cameras.
- Only provide keys and access credentials to employees who need them.
- Lock desks and file storage when not in use.
- Position workstations so screens aren’t visible to those passing by.
- Properly dispose of sensitive documents.
- Securing the physical premises is critical to prevent theft and unauthorized access.
Vet New Hires
Background checks help avoid hiring dishonest employees who may steal or damage the business. Before confirming a new hire, it is suggested that you:
- Check criminal records, employment history, and professional references to uncover any red flags.
- Require drug tests where permitted by law.
- Conduct credit checks for positions that involve financial responsibilities.
- Use probationary periods to evaluate new hires on ethics and conduct.
- Vet contractors and vendors, too.
Implement a Vendor Risk Management Program
Third-party vendors with network access or sensitive data can pose security and compliance risks. Some best practices in implementing a vendor risk management program include:
- Develop a vendor risk management program to assess their cyber practices and contractual obligations.
- Require them to follow privacy policies and agree to audits.
- Screen vendors on data security capabilities, insurance coverage, and financial stability.
- Conduct on-site visits for higher-risk vendors.
- Include the right to audit clauses in contracts.
- Continuously monitor vendor compliance and the health of the relationship.
Limit Privileges and Monitor Activity
Don’t give any users, even trusted employees, unlimited access. Employees are often the weakest link in even the greatest security plans.
- Grant permissions on a need-to-know basis and review regularly.
- Have mandatory vacation policies, so fraud by a single person is harder to conceal.
- Log and monitor network activity to detect unauthorized or suspicious access attempts.
- Enable system alerts for high-risk events like accessing sensitive data or changing security settings.
- Surveillance cameras can also help identify internal threats.
Build a Security-Conscious Culture
Your biggest defense against insider threats is building an ethical workplace culture that encourages accountability and protects the company. Make sure to include cybersecurity and ethics in onboarding training and enforce conduct policies through reprimands and termination if necessary. Foster a security-conscious culture by rewarding employees for spotting risks or identifying improvements. Equally as important, listen and respond if workers report suspicious activity. Create an open-door environment where employees feel safe speaking up before issues escalate.
Protecting your critical business systems, assets, and information requires securing against both internal and external threats. Implement layered technical defenses like cybersecurity software, physical access controls, and activity monitoring. Manage risk by thoroughly vetting new hires and vendors. Limit unnecessary access and privileges. But don’t overlook the human element – building an organizational culture of security, ethics, and responsibility gives you the best chance of defense. These measures will help you detect and prevent loss due to cybercrime, unauthorized access, human error, theft, and fraud.
Photo by TheDigitalArtist; Unsplash
Noah Nguyen is a multi-talented developer who brings a unique perspective to his craft. Initially a creative writing professor, he turned to Dev work for the ability to work remotely. He now lives in Seattle, spending time hiking and drinking craft beer with his fiancee.
