Small Business Security: Check The Best Cybersecurity & Password Practices Here!

It’s a common myth that cybercriminals only attack big brands and MNCs. Small businesses and growing companies are also on the radar, primarily because they don’t spend as much on cybersecurity and don’t have resources to chase hackers. Cybersecurity policies and regulations are only getting complex by day. Among known US bans, California has passed a law banning default passwords for IoT devices. Compliance is not a choice for small businesses, and they have to step up security measures, because data theft and breaches can have a domino effect and serious consequences. In this post, we acare discussing cybersecurity & password practices for small businesses. 

Password protection measures

Besides changing default passwords for IoT devices, there are also other steps that enterprises and small businesses can take for password protection – 

1. Ensure that employees are aware about the best password creation & management practices. If they are not using a password management tool as yet, it’s high time to recommend one. 
2. Long and strong passwords are a must. A strong password needs to have at least 10 to 12 characters, must have numbers, uppercase & lowercase letters, and of course, special characters. Passwords don’t have to make sense, but need to be complex. 
3. Don’t forget multifactor authentication. For selected accounts, network resources, data servers, and privilege users, this is an absolute must. Sometimes, an additional security question is enough, while biometrics can be used too. 

Cybersecurity simplified

Besides password protection, here are some basic cybersecurity practices that small businesses need to follow. 

1. Update all firmware and software. Manufacturers and vendors are constantly finding ways to update their products and apps, and the offer firmware and software updates every now and then. Ensure that all apps and programs are updated, including firmware for products like IP cameras. 
2. Hire cybersecurity experts. Establishing cybersecurity practices and training employees may not be the easiest tasks for the in-house management team. If required, get experts on board, who can help with policies and relevant aspects. 
3. Focus on ‘Work from Home’ and ‘Bring Your Own Device’ policies. It is also necessary to consider how and through which personal devices employees are using company resources. WFH may become the new norm post the pandemic time, and it is wise to recommend best practices to employees in advance. 

A proactive stance towards cybersecurity is the best step forward for small businesses, and there’s no escaping from that.