Data Breaches are on the rise. Cybercrimes are also becoming more common which makes it even more important to have a plan in place for your business before it happens. No security method will 100% protect your data but it’s important to be prepared and know what you can do to prevent these disasters from occurring. We will cover some of the ways you can effectively prevent data breaches and cyber-attacks as well as how to recover should one happen despite your efforts.
Hiding Your IP Address
A Virtual Private Network is known for providing extra security and anonymity online, but did you know that it can also help with preventing data breaches? The vital fact to remember is that VPN changes the IP address of your device to one from the server’s location which ensures that all incoming and outgoing traffic is encrypted. This makes it more difficult for hackers to get their hands on your data. If you’re looking for something cheaper than a monthly plan with your Virtual Private Network provider, you can set up an encrypted proxy through SSH Tunneling. It’s just as effective at hiding your IP address and encrypting all of your traffic but it’s more difficult to set up without the help of a third party.
Related: 4 Ways Your ID Can Be Stolen
The ‘Social Login’ Bypasses 2-Step Verification Process
This method is used to try and get people who use 2-Step Verification for their accounts to log in or access an account without the added security step, usually with a phishing attempt. Phishers will make up fake websites that look like legitimate login pages and trick users into logging in then send the credentials off to the hacker. Usually, it will be another page that asks you to sign in again but this time it’s sending you back to Facebook (or another social networking site) which is why it appears as if your account is still secure when in fact you’re on a fake page. This can be prevented by using unique passwords for each website, not using public WIFI or unsecured networks, etc.
Encryption And Password Protection
You would be surprised at the number of people who forget to encrypt their sensitive files or leave them un-password protected so anyone can open them. This makes it easy for hackers to access your information if they get their hands on it. For example, if someone gets into your phone while you’re using public WIFI, they can easily access your data. Always make sure to password protect any file that contains sensitive information and encrypt all of your files even if they aren’t very important. You can use programs like TrueCrypt or 7-Zip to encrypt your files. You might need them one day!
Identifying And Preventing Malicious Software
Malware is a term used to describe malicious software that can damage or gain unauthorized access to your computer without you knowing it. These viruses are usually hidden in spam emails, free software downloads, cracked software, etc. They come in different forms but the most common types are Trojans, RansomWare, Worms, Viruses, Spyware/Adware, Rootkits, Backdoors, Bots, etc. Properly maintained anti-malware software can help prevent most malware infections but it’s not foolproof. Some types of malware are designed to bypass your anti-virus program but there are ways around that too. Regularly updating your operating system, using approved downloads only, avoiding suspicious emails, etc. will ensure you have the highest level of protection against malware attacks.
Fully Backing Up Your Data
It is extremely important to always back up all files before any data breaches or cybercrimes occur to minimize damage and make recovery possible if needed. If you don’t already backup your data regularly, start today! Don’t wait until after the fact because you might get lucky and that would only delay the inevitable. Many companies can provide IT support for small businesses in which case they will most likely back up your data too but it’s best to make sure you have a copy of all important files stored either on your computer or an external hard drive in case something happens to them.
How To Recover If There Is A Data Breach
If your company suffers an attack then there is not much that can be done except to report it to local authorities and hope for the best. There are online services that will help you recover from some data breaches but they’re not always effective because most hackers are good at covering their tracks. However, credit monitoring services may be able to help in specific types of attacks so look into them if you need help recovering financial records or other important documents after a major attack on your company’s system.
Taking Precautions Against Phishing Attacks
Phishing is when hackers try to get people to give up their personal information online by posing as someone trustworthy. For example, you might receive an email from PayPal asking you to log into your account so they can verify some information with you then ask you for your password or other sensitive information once logged in. Always check the URL of the site before entering any personal details no matter who is asking for it. You can do this by hovering your mouse over the link, looking at the left of your browser, and verifying that the URL is correct before entering any information.
Always Patched And Updated Software
Hackers are always finding new ways to gain access to company data through flaws in software programs which is why it’s important to keep all software patched and updated as much as possible. Many companies provide IT support for small businesses but if yours doesn’t then be sure to stay up-to-date on any patches or updates available for commonly used programs such as Office Suite, Adobe Reader, Flash Player, Java, web browsers like Chrome, and Firefox, etc.
These are just some of the ways your business can effectively prevent data breaches and cybercrimes in the workplace. Being prepared for these events will greatly increase the efficiency of your recovery and minimize any damage done to your company. There is no 100% secure method that will protect your data but you must always be ready for anything. Stay up-to-date on all current events in the security world to ensure you know what risks are out there and how to best go about preventing them from impacting your business negatively.
