When you are running a business you want to be sure that all of the systems you have in place are as efficient as possible. If your business systems happen to let you down, or if you get attacked in a cyber attack your business data (and customer data) could be at risk. So, what tips can you take on board to protect your systems and data moving forwards?
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Look at Having a Complete Overhaul
You may want to look at having a complete overhaul of the systems you have in place. Sometimes, you can waste a lot of time and energy by incorporating new systems or pieces of software. They can clash, and they can be counterproductive when put together. If your current business systems and customer data storage have been in place for a few years, then why not look at a complete overhaul? You may just find that it will be more cost-efficient in the long run.
Ensure You Have a Clear Privacy Policy
Do visitors to your website know how you handle their data? Are they aware of how you process and store their data? It is a legal requirement to have a clear and visible privacy policy for visitors to read that is both easy to find and easy to understand. The privacy policy will lay out what information is gathered from visitors and customers. It will also lay out that for which it will be used. Having a privacy policy is important, and it is essential, and if you find you do not have one (or do not have one that is up to date), you could be risking your business systems and customer information too.
Focus on Cybersecurity Systems
Unfortunately, cybercriminals are always looking for ways to get access to your business systems and customer data. It is valuable to them, and they are very smart and forward-thinking when it comes to bypassing the measures and security you may have already put in place. It is important that you focus on (and prioritize) finding cybersecurity solutions because you need to ensure you can stay one step ahead (if not more). If you are not proactive to cybercrime and cybercriminals, you can find that they can sabotage everything you have worked so hard to build. This is why it is so important to be proactive and not reactive.
Regularly Test All Systems
No matter what systems you have in place now (and which you choose to install in the future), you need to ensure that regular testing is high on your list of priorities. Systems can fail, there can be errors in the codes, or there could be potential security risks and breaches. When you regularly test everything you have in place, you give yourself time to rectify errors. Time is crucial when it comes to protecting your business systems and customer data. If you cannot commit to regularly testing, then be sure to outsource this, as once a weakness is found, it can be easily infiltrated. Managed SOC service providers can also help scheduling regular check ups beforehand.
Focus on Encryption
If you do not already have at least one level of encryption for your business systems in place, then start prioritizing this task. Files can be encrypted, and levels of encryption can vary – depending on the type of system used (or data stored). If your system already has built-in encryption that you are not taking advantage of, then rectify this as soon as possible. If your systems management does not offer this facility, then reach out to a third party to get the coverage and protection you need.
Testing for Vulnerabilities
By now, you will realize the importance of regularly testing all of your systems. When you do this, you need to focus on specific tasks that expose vulnerable areas. Testing just for vulnerability can help you target and pinpoint areas that need urgent or immediate attention. If you have had vulnerable areas in your business systems before, or you have had weak customer data protection, then make vulnerability scans and tests a priority for your in-house team or a 3rd pastry team.
Always Update Software and Systems
Business systems and customer data systems and software will need updating regularly. You will have to be constantly conscious and aware of developer updates and market updates. If you are not focused on updating software and systems, your business will end up falling behind, and it will most likely be exposed to many threats and risks.
