Cybercrime is thriving. It’s a multibillion-dollar industry and growing. Today’s threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Attacks are carried out through the spread of malicious programs, unauthorized web access, fake websites, and other means of stealing personal or business information. We must all be aware of the threats and do what we can to help protect our computers and our data.
Here are some top security tips for preventing cyber attacks. Many are relatively simple and economical.
Tip #1: Keep security software current with the latest security software, web browser and operating system to defend against viruses, malware and other online threats and maximize automated software updates.
Tip #2: Use a firewall for your Internet connection.
Tip #3: Avoid “phishing scams” which seek personal, financial or other sensitive data by not opening or otherwise responding to any official-looking email messages seeking such data.
Tip #4: Require strong passwords that are regularly changed and discourage employees from writing them down or doing other things compromising their confidentiality.
Tip #5: Control physical access to your computers and network components.
Tip #6: Require individual access accounts and permit access to data or systems based on an employee’s specific duties.
Tip #7: Provide ongoing cybersecurity training for employees.
Tip #8: Regularly back up data either in the cloud or by separate hard drive storage.
Tip #9: Secure Wi-Fi networks through access codes and other measures.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) provides a cybersecurity planning guide for small businesses which can be a very useful tool for addressing your specific needs and concerns. Go to: www.fcc.gov/cyberplanner.
If you have any questions or would like to speak with one of our certified public accountants regarding tax-related scams, please contact us through our website or give us a call at (952) 545-0424.
Sources:
National Cyber Security Alliance (2018 Report) – referenced on the F.B.I. Cybercrime Website (2018)
Berkley Information Security and Policy – University of California, Berkley (2018)
HISCOX Small Business Cyber Risk Report (2018)
Insurance Journal, “Half of U.S. Businesses Report Being Hacked,” September 29, 2017
