Many business owners want to take their companies online as web-based businesses are the new thing that storms the market. If you also want to take your corporate network to the cloud, you should be aware of the cyber risks that come with it. Luckily, you can make your corporate data impenetrable with a proper strategy. Follow the steps explained below to protect your company from cyber-attacks.
1-) Always backup your data
This is crucial as it can help you recover your corporate data from both cyber attacks and computer-related technical problems. If you don’t want to lose everything with a single cyber attack, backing up your data is necessary for your company. Luckily, this is a low-cost practice that can save the whole company’s life.
You can use reliable cloud services or hardware to back up your business data; just make sure you don’t have paper copies of this sensitive data as it can be harder to protect. The important thing about backing up corporate data is scheduling. Categorize your corporate resources and set up daily, weekly, quarterly, and yearly backup operations.
2-) Educate your employees about cyber security
Employees who are unaware of the cyber security risks create liability for your company. They are the ones who access corporate data, and they are the most vulnerable targets of a possible cyber attack. Remember that you’re only as safe as your least protected part of your cyber security policies.
To properly educate your employees about cyber security, make sure you show the possible risks of the online world and their significance in protecting corporate resources.
You can hold weekly sessions to educate them about the following;
- How to create powerful passwords
- How to understand scams & phishing emails
- What to do in case of a cyber attack
- Where to report suspected activities
Doing these sessions will raise awareness among your employees and turn them into conscious internet users.
3-) Implement a cloud VPN solution
Having an adequate, impenetrable, and complete cyber security policy and precautions is an indispensable part of any modern business. If you are a company whose network is on the cloud, implementing a cloud VPN solution into your network is not a preference but a necessity.
The logic behind cloud VPN services is to create a special tunnel between your employees and the corporate network. Additionally, as a cloud solution, these services ensure secure access without any location limitations. Your employees can access corporate resources from this private tunnel without any security concerns from anywhere or at any time.
If you choose a capable cloud VPN solution, you can maximize your cyber security thanks to the following features;
- Multiple user verification methods such as 2FA and biometrics
- Increased network visibility with segmentation and layered access
- Complete integration to existing infrastructure for a seamless experience
- SSO to make the verification process easy for your employees
In a world full of cyber threats, these cloud-based services offer comprehensive protection free from hardware which is a big plus, especially for smaller businesses. No matter what you do, make sure you have a robust VPN solution.
4-) Schedule occasional penetration tests
You can’t be sure about the success of your existing cyber security policy unless you act like a hacker who wants to get into your corporate network. Any cyber security practice might have gaps and flaws, and it is better to be safe than sorry.
A penetration test, often known as a pen test, simulates a cyber assault on your computer system in order to find exploitable flaws. It consists of controlled breach attempts to a network from its admins and IT personnel.
Creating a pen test team from your IT department and scheduling penetration tests help you understand the security gaps on your corporate network and identify threats. After a pen test, your IT department can take the necessary precautions for an actual cyber attack.
Doing these tests occasionally will ensure that your cyber security structure is up to date and thoroughly protected.
5-) Update your software & hardware
Those annoying and never-ending reminders about software updates are there for a reason. Updated software and hardware will be much more protected against cyber threats.
Older versions of software and down-level hardware will make your corporate network vulnerable to cyber attacks. Don’t back down from investing in modern technology hardware, and make sure your corporate devices are up to date.
Lastly, don’t forget that some companies let their employees work on personal devices. It may be harder to control whether they are updated or not, but make sure to emphasize the importance of the issue and have them updated too.
Final thoughts
We live in a digital era where businesses keep all their sensitive information online. Ensuring an effective cyber security policy is as essential as protecting your physical office. If you don’t want to deal with sensitive data and profit loss, you need to set up proven cyber security practices.
We believe it is best to make sure you have a secure network thanks to implementing cloud VPN services and frequent pen tests rather than preparing for the aftermath of a potential cyber attack. Take precautions before facing a serious threat and protect your company.
