Avoid These Cyber-Security Mistakes While Launching Startups

Each year, thousands of people try their hand at small business ownership. Making a new startup successful is no easy task. One of the main things you have to do to give your business a sporting chance at success is embracing the power of technology. Using the latest tech tools at your disposal can help you both discover your audience and provide them with top-notch service. While using technology is important, you need to take preventative measures to avoid data hacks and other cyber-security problems.

Over 40 percent of the cyber-attacks perpetrated each year target small business. This is why developing a comprehensive cyber-security strategy is so important.

The following are some of the most common cyber-security mistakes startups make and how to avoid them.

Being Complacent Can Create Big Problems

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a business owner is abiding by the “it will never happen to me” philosophy when it comes to cyber-attacks. Being complacent when it comes to developing and enforcing a cyber-security strategy can be very problematic. The methods used by hackers to infiltrate business networks are growing more sophisticated with each passing day.

The best way to figure out where network vulnerabilities exist is by having a penetration test performed. With the help of an IT professional, you can find out how to fix the holes in your network security in a hurry. The longer you wait to remove these problems, the higher the risk will become of your network being hacked.

Don’t Rely Solely on Endpoint Security Measures

When first starting a new business, there will be a number of things you simply don’t know. Rather than remaining blissfully unaware of important things like cyber-security, your main goal needs to be educating yourself on important things like cyber-security.

The biggest misconception most people have regarding network security is that an antivirus program will solve all of their problems. While having an endpoint security solution in place is important, you need to work on creating many layers of protection.

Investing in things like a comprehensive firewall and network monitoring is definitely worth the money. Allowing IT professionals to monitor your network will help you catch vulnerabilities before they are exposed by hackers. While these cyber-security solutions are expensive, they are definitely worth the investment.

Failing to Restrict Access to Sensitive Information

Collecting and storing sensitive information is something most modern businesses ideas do on a daily basis. Some business owners think that the only threat to network security is from hackers or cyber-criminals. While this is true, you need to also turn your focus inward and look at your employees.

Each year, disgruntled employees steal or delete important information from their company’s servers. The best way to prepare for this type of attack is by restricting access to the sensitive information on your network.

For instance, if you have an IT department in place, they don’t necessarily need to see sensitive customer information. While you need to grant IT employees access to things like detailed and structured Window logging, you can restrict their access to other information not related to their job.

Device Management is Essential

Modern businesses use a number of different devices to stay connected with consumers. If people working for your company access information via their smartphone or other mobile devices, you need to make sure these devices are properly secured.

Many experienced business owners have learned their lesson when it comes to bringing your own device debacle. Often times, the bring your own device policy will end up exposing a business network to lots of threats.

The best way to mitigate these risks is by investing in devices for your team. By doing this, you can rest assured that any mobile computing is done is secure. Consulting with IT professionals is a great way to figure out which devices are the best fit for your particular needs.

Reach Out For Professional Help

Trying to handle cyber-security on your own is a recipe for disaster. This is why reaching out to some professional is a must. With the assistance of an IT professional, you can properly secure your network with ease.