Locking the digital front door protects businesses, customers

Businesses spend a great deal of time and resources trying to avoid theft, so they install security cameras, place valuables in lock boxes and safes, and attach security tags to expensive items. Some even hire 24-hour security guards.

Unfortunately, at a time when many employees are accessing their work accounts, emails and servers remotely, businesses often leave their digital front doors wide open.

When employees log in, they want to enter their username and password, then immediately get to work. There is a cost to that convenience, and that cost could amount to your personal and professional livelihood. Cybercriminals are continuously on the prowl, looking for weak links. They want your usernames, passwords, bank account and credit card numbers, tax documents, emails and social media access. They also want data from your customers and clients.

Locking your company’s digital front door is just as critical as locking the physical front door. Here are six simple steps that Southwest Florida businesses can take to protect their digital systems:

• Multi-Factor Authentication: This step requires users to verify their identity, typically via text or a telephone call, before being able to access an account. Even if hackers have obtained an employee’s username and password, they still don’t have access to an employee’s cell phone to see the verification code.
• Virtual Private Network: Connecting through a VPN encrypts all data. Even if hackers can access your system, the data they see on their end is meaningless.
• Software updates: Operating systems for Macs, PCs and cell phones contain regular updates to fix bugs and add security measures based on recent activity from cybercriminals.
• Security software: Free or inexpensive programs run 24/7 and protect your data even when you’re not paying attention.
• Shut it down: Turn off computers when not in use. That breaks a connection if hackers already have gotten access to your network.
• Change passwords: Require employees to change passwords every 30 to 90 days. Passwords should contain a mix of letters, numbers and characters, or even entire sentences.

Cybercriminals can pull millions of pieces of data in one day. That’s why it can take hackers weeks, months or even years before they attempt to do anything with your data. The best way to prevent any type of breach or theft is simply by locking the door. Cybercriminals are opportunistic; if you’re putting up a good digital fight, they’ll just move along to an easier target.