Keeping Things Secure: Cybersecurity Habits You Need to Have

Are you secure?

Not in an emotional security way (that’s between you and your therapist), but when it comes to your cybersecurity!

If you want to keep your company’s data protected, you need to assess your cybersecurity habits, as a worker and overall as a company.

Make security a priority in your culture through these key tips:

Educate Employees on Cybersecurity Best Practices

• Regularly train employees on cybersecurity basics like recognizing phishing emails, creating strong passwords, and following safe online practices. Many breaches happen due to human error, so building awareness is a critical first line of defence.

Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• Ensure all accounts use strong, unique passwords, ideally stored in a secure password manager. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for sensitive accounts to add an extra layer of protection, requiring a second verification step like a code sent to a phone.

Keep Software and Systems Updated

• Regularly update all software, operating systems, and antivirus programs to patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals might exploit. Set up automatic updates whenever possible to ensure nothing is missed.

Limit Access and Use Role-Based Permissions

• Only give employees access to the data and systems necessary for their role. This principle of "least privilege" limits the risk of accidental or malicious data exposure and helps contain potential breaches.

Back-Up Data Regularly and Securely

• Regularly back up critical data to a secure, off-site location or cloud service with strong encryption. In case of a ransomware attack or hardware failure, backups ensure that your business can recover data quickly without paying a ransom.

Remember, your business’ habits start with you. You set the status quo, so ensure your habits reflect your values. 

If you want your team to have the same diligence with their technological habits, you have to set the example and have the conversations.

You know what they say when you assume…