Running a successful business involves taking measures to protect information; however, security measures often fall terribly short of their mark. Even though research shows that 60% of all attacks came from inside the business, most programs focus on protecting information from outside risks. Obviously, internal security is just as important considering that those working from within the company have access to important files, documents, and information. Listed below are some of the ways that you can take action to enhance your cyber security.
Control Who Has Access 
Far too often, businesses pay little attention to which employees have access to important records and information. The general belief is that, as long as someone is employed by the company, they are safe – a belief that is proven incorrect time and time again.
A recent case between the company Waymo and their ex-employee Anthony Levandowski highlights the importance of monitoring who has access to files. Levandowski was an engineer who was given access to business files, copied the information about a self-driving-car, and then used that information to start a business of his own.
To be safe against attacks, businesses must begin monitoring who has access to important details. Even employees who are trustworthy should be monitored and kept accountable. Far too often, even the best employees can fall in a moment of selfish greed.
Monitor What is Downloaded
Employees are supposed to spend their time at work actually working; however, in a world where the internet is necessary for almost any task, it also provides employees with an opportunity to use the web for their personal use on company time. Companies have long been concerned about the time and productivity that is lost when workers opt to use the internet for browsing the web, scanning social media feed, and watching videos – however, these actions can also lead to leaks in company information.
Often, games and videos that look harmless are actually trojan horses secretly sending malware and viruses into the computer system. While it may be impossible to monitor everything that employees do online, its important for businesses to install good anti-virus and anti-malware software along with firewalls. These cyber security measures will work to monitor what is downloaded and block suspicious programs.
Reconsider Bring Your Own Device
In the age of technology, more and more companies are pushing for their employees to “bring your own device” to work. BYOD allows employees to bring their personal devices such as iphones, tablets, and laptops to work with them and often gives them the opportunity to access company information over their own device from their homes or while they’re traveling. There are benefits to BYOD; however, some people don’t think that the benefits are worth the risks.
When businesses use BYOD, they are putting company information at risk since it is impossible to monitor private devices or make sure that they each have anti-virus software in place. There is also the fear of someone else using the device and stealing information. Businesses should opt to either rethink BYOD or lay down rules that will keep company information safe.
Keep Software Up-to-Date
If you’ve been using the same software for the last fifteen years, then it has to be safe, right? Sadly, this is not true. Outdated software often has developed flaws that have already been uncovered by hackers, making it easy for them to be exploited. Make sure that your company keeps all software up-to-date for optimal security.
A business can’t thrive when information is not kept within the company. To make sure that your data is kept safe, use the steps listed above and also consider employing the use of a security service that will help you manage cyber threats.
