When it comes to cybersecurity, far too many Kansas City small business owners stubbornly insist, “That won’t happen to me” or “I’m too small… nobody wants access to our data.” You’re wrong, wrong, WRONG! This is EXACTLY what cybercriminals are counting on you to believe so you’ll let your guard down, putting ZERO protections in place, or grossly inadequate ones.
Right now, there are over 980 million malware programs out there and growing, and 70% of the cyberattacks occurring are aimed at small businesses (Kansas City small businesses included); you just don’t hear about it because the local Kansas City news wants to report on BIG breaches OR it’s kept quiet by the Kansas City company for fear of attracting bad PR, lawsuits and data-breach fines – and out of sheer embarrassment.
Protecting your Kansas City small business is a partnership between you and your Kansas City IT company. Here’s how to work with your Kansas City managed IT services company to get the best protection.
Identifying Risk Factors
The first step to protecting your Kansas City business is understanding what risks you face. To do that, consider what kind of data you collect and store, who has access to it, and where it is stored. Once you've identified which types of data are most important to your small Kansas City business, you can begin to assess how vulnerable those areas are and make changes accordingly.
For example, if customer payment information is stored on an unsecured server or computer, then that needs to be addressed immediately. Additionally, consider installing antivirus software on all computers used by employees as well as any other devices used for work purposes such as tablets or smartphones. This will help detect and block any malicious code before it can cause damage. Not sure how to do this? Schedule a Cybersecurity assessment by filling out this form
Let Them Do Their Job!
Allow your Kansas City IT consultant to monitor and maintain your network 24/7/365 and install critical cyber security protections that will keep you from falling victim. If they tell you it’s important to add a protection, upgrade a device or purchase a better backup solution, listen to them!
Advanced Endpoint Protection
Antivirus is nearly useless against the threats happening today, so you need a more sophisticated approach to protecting your network. If all your Kansas City IT company offers is antivirus, it’s time you find another IT company. A good Kansas City IT consultant will guide you through more advanced protections today that will greatly reduce your chances of a cyber-attack happening.
Employee Cybersecurity Awareness Training
Employees are the single biggest threat to your Kansas City company’s security. All it takes is one employee using a weak password or clicking, unsuspecting, on a shared Google Doc link in an e-mail, and they could unleash a malware program that will take down your entire system within minutes. That’s why we recommend providing some security training on an ongoing basis to keep your employees hypervigilant against phishing attacks, suspicious e-mails and links, and downloading files that can circumvent security protocols and infect your network.
Implementation Of An AUP (Acceptable Use Policy)
An AUP is a document that details to your employees how they are permitted to use company e-mail, internet, data and devices to protect you from potential lawsuits, data breaches and confidential information being shared or stolen.
2FA And Strong Passwords
2FA, or “two-factor authentication,” is a process where an employee must use a password and some other type of authentication to prove they are who they say they are. For example, you might need to authorize access via a cell phone in addition to logging in with a password. Using this for critical applications greatly increases the security of those applications and devices. If you don’t have this in place, your insurance will deny your application or renewal for you cyber risk insurance policy.
Of course, these are just a few things to look for. Everyone’s situation is slightly different and you need the expertise of a good IT consultant to assess your situation and make recommendations that are right for you. Fill out the form to assess your situation!
Not ready just yet?
Our book will provide you with the exact information you need.
Choosing the right IT company is a daunting task. Pick the wrong one and you could end up locked into a contract where frustrations and costs mount as you get hammered with constant IT problems, horrible service and possibly even a cyber attack.
Pick the right one and you’ll breathe a sigh of relief as your IT problems disappear and you gain complete peace of mind that your data and company are protected. Problem is, they all sound good and promise to be proactive, responsive and professional, but how can you really know who the good guys are until you sign a contract and turn over the “keys” to your company’s network?
I've detailed all you need to know and more in my NEWLY LAUNCHED book, "Worry-Free IT”.
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