Implementing cyber-security procedures for your company network doesn’t guarantee the safety of your critical information.

The various ways that cybercriminals can hack into your network and steal your data evolves just as quickly as technology itself evolve. Simply put, never take your safeguards for granted, and always be vigilant against data theft. You must continually ensure that cyber-security procedures are current and tested. Doing so ensures your employees can safely utilize and deploy business information securely-both onsite and offsite.

Below are five of the most important measures you can implement to keep your business protected against cybercriminals

1) Provide Security Training for Employees

It is crucial to update security procedures on a regular basis. Through training, employees can be instructed on how to spot potential threats. Some of these might include fictitious emails such as phishing scams and other threats that harm your business’ network. Advise them on how to create effective and safe passwords, and make sure they comply with all cyber-security measures.

2) Prepare for the Worst-Case Scenario

Being prepared will help maintain business operations in the event of a disaster or cyber-attack. Moreover, ensure there is a solid data backup plan in place. This will reduce damage in the event of loss of power, server failure, file corruption, or data breach. Implement multi-faceted and sophisticated backup strategies. Additionally, you should integrate a combination of on-premise and cloud-based solutions.

3) Minimize Offsite Threats

The same mobile technology that allows your employees to interact with important data while working outside the office is uniquely vulnerable to a savvy cyber-criminal. Consequently, you can mitigate this risk by encrypting your business’ data, instituting password protection policies, and guarding against unauthorized downloads.

4) Perform Scheduled Security Updates

Defend your business against attacks and schedule regular “tune-ups”. Ideally, businesses should be conducting preventative network and backup security tests frequently. In addition, plan a schedule for routine patch management, email filtering, and antivirus defenses.

New threats pop up more often than you’d think- and it is imperative that your business be up-to-date on all lines of defense.

5) Make Sure Your Software is Up-to-Date

Running outdated versions of software leaves your business seriously vulnerable to an attack. Furthermore, old versions of software are not secure enough to protect you against the newer, sophisticated viruses that are rampant.
When combined, these measures will dramatically increase your cyber-security and reduce your vulnerability to cyber threats, allowing you peace of mind this holiday season