Keep reading if recent media stories about big companies being hacked have made you wonder how to protect your business from cyber attacks.

Online threats are a major concern for any business, but most business owners are not doing anything to prevent them until it’s too late.

Be pro-active and check out our expert advice and tips on cyber security for small businesses from sole traders to limited companies.

Online security and data protection are critical for your business. Cyber security is not something that should concern only large corporations, but it should be a priority for all startups.

Small businesses are the victims of almost 10,000 cyberattacks every day according to research by the FSB published in 2019.

So how do you protect your business from cyber attacks and can small businesses secure their online data? What cyber security precautions can be taken to safeguard remote workers?

Let’s take a look at the cybersecurity measures that small businesses can use to protect themselves.

Cyber Security Management

Small businesses need to ensure that they have simple technical controls in place. This includes antivirus protection and alert notifications. You can enable these on Google or Outlook.

It is also helpful to ensure that every business has someone who understands information security. They can pass on tips, such as not clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown people, to the rest of the workforce.

Cyber Security For Remote Workers

Another way to protect your business from cyber attacks is to keep in touch with your employees so they are aware of cyber risks when they work remotely.

Your communication should be personal to each employee. This will ensure that your message is memorable and easily applicable. Encouraging employees to handle their own personal data safely will ensure they do the same for your business.

Prior to allowing employees to work remotely, make sure they have taken information security training or read your information security policy. Ask them to take a quick quiz and keep track of the results. If you don’t have the time or resources to make one, there are many pre-made modules that you can purchase online.

To help protect your computer from cyber threats, you should download antivirus software. This removes human error and provides additional protection for the business. Your employees should be instructed to turn off their computers at the end of the day in order to receive any updates.

Beware of phishing emails. Cyber scammers have the perfect opportunity to target people because more people now work from home. To get people to click, they use emotive topics such as tax rebates or charity donations.

When reading emails, take your time, make sure you know who the sender is (Check the sender’s email and match it to the company) and don’t click on any links if there is any doubt. This is a great tip to protect your business from cyber attacks.

Busting Cyber Security Myths

It is technical and should be understood by tech professionals only. Cyber security is something that we all need to be able to comprehend and understand. It is crucial to translate complex terminology into simple and understandable language that everyone understands. If you are looking for help, there are many government websites that can assist you.

Cyber Security in the UK

Cybersecurity is a constant battle. To protect your business from cyber attacks, individuals and businesses must be aware of the risks. Cyber security is constantly evolving and must be reviewed regularly. It is important not to get complacent as hackers will always find new ways to access our systems, data, and money.

Summary

Cyberattacks can target any business at any time, but you can use alert notifications and antivirus software to help protect themselves.

Be sure to designate a person to be responsible for information security and communicating important details to staff. This is especially important if employees are remote. Keep an eye out for phishing emails and NEVER click on links in emails.

Doing these things will help you protect your business from cyber attacks. Although it might seem daunting at first, online security must be taken seriously by every business as getting hacked or scammed by fraudsters can be devastating to your business.

Be safe out there.

For a FREE tax review of your business, call Quest Chartered Management accountants Birmingham at 0121 235 0315 for a chat to help you reduce your tax bill, keep more money in your pocket and grow your business.

If you like this post: How To Protect Your Business From Cyber Attacks, then make sure to check out more like this on our Blog: What Can You Claim R and D Tax Credits For?, 10 Top Accounting Tips For Startups, Pros and Cons of Paying Your Tax Early, 7 Bookkeeping Mistakes To Avoid, Best Birmingham Chartered Management Accountants.