Intel-owned McAfee is looking to educate the SMB market on how to keep everything from hardware to information safe in today's cyber-connected world. The company revealed the top ten ways to keep businesses with 50 employees and less protected, with the number one method proving surprising.
10. Train your employees
Your cyber-security is only as strong as your weakest link. McAfee recommend train your employees to use strong passwords and avoid dangerous links and email attachments.
SMB sales and distribution head Robbie Upcroft said it best: “security is a people problem, not an IT problem.”
9. Know your data
Do you know where all your confidential information is? Locate and limit access to private data. The "average cost of a data breach per compromised customer record is $214," Upcroft said.
8. Know your devices
Identify and secure all devices your employees use, including thumb drives, smartphones, and tablets.
7. Protect your network
Today’s users connect anywhere at any time. Protect network access with VPNs and firewalls. “The world has changed, computers are everywhere and you're connected to everyone all the time, Upcroft said.
6. Secure physical devices
Keep your servers and unused devices safe behind locked doors with limited access.
5. Keep your facilities safe
Don’t let strangers wander the halls. Limit physical access with locked doors and managed entry systems.
4. Protect your website and ensure safe browsing
Reassure your customers with trust marks on your website, and protect employees with strong anti-malware software.
3. Create clear cyber security policy
Set clear written policies on use and disposal of confidential documents and devices. “It’s not just the IT department that needs to think about security. It’s absolutely everyone," Upcroft said.
2. Dispose of documents and old devices properly
Foil dumpster divers by physically shredding old paper documents and digitally shredding data on retired devices.
1. Screen your employees
Job seekers can bend the truth. Conduct thorough background checks before hiring new employees.
According to Upcroft: “the biggest single threat that we have found in our research is existing and ex-employees in an organisation often compromise information."
Top ten McAfee security tips
Intel-owned McAfee is looking to educate the SMB market on how to keep everything from hardware to information safe in today's cyber-connected world. The company revealed the top ten ways to keep businesses with 50 employees and less protected, with the number one method proving surprising.