In Focus Consumer Credit
Protecting your business from data risks
Companies of all sizes are subject to fraud attacks, so now is the time to make certain that you are secure
Elik Dermer Chief executive and founder, Comparisun
In the last 12 months, four out of five companies in the UK have suffered breaches. One small business is hacked successfully every 19 seconds in the UK. Recent research revealed that 33% of
UK companies have said they have lost customers after a data breach, with 41% of UK customers saying they would stop spending with a UK company temporarily after a security breach. A further 90% of small businesses in the
UK are currently unprepared for a GDPR breach. Here are some tips for businesses to avoid data breaches and heavy fines.
Update your software Ignoring signs for a software update can leave you vulnerable to an attack. Software updates usually contain security upgrades which will defend your business from any future threats. Make sure any updates are installed regularly on your device to keep your information secure and protected. However, be wary of any suspicious activity – make sure the software update is from a trusted source. Top tip: If you are using a Macbook or
Apple device, you can check for updates by clicking on System Preferences.
Engage your employees Many attacks are the result of human error. Opening spam e-mails, emailing sensitive data to the wrong person, and accidentally downloading dangerous software are the most common mistakes employees can make within a business that can lead to
February 2021
cyber-attacks. Make sure you implement a data protection policy internally, highlighting what is expected of your employees. Top tip: Build this into your induction
period – make sure your new employees understand you take data breaches seriously and what to do if they suspect an attack.
Do not use obvious passwords Never use obvious words as a password choice. “Password” and “123456” are some of the most common password choices that usually lead to hacking. Avoid using your company name in your password too. Make sure you are using a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers and symbols. Top tip: Make sure you are changing
your password every 60 days, to keep your data secure.
Back up your systems One of the most common mistakes businesses
make is not backing up data correctly. If a cyber-attack targeted your company, files can be deleted. If these files contain important information – or even sensitive information – it can be detrimental to your business and reputation. Top tip: Make sure you regularly back up
your systems externally, off-site. This will cover you if you were targeted.
Have a response plan ready An attack on your business is never certain but is extremely possible. What you should think about, is how you are going to respond to a threat, were it to happen. If you are too slow to respond to an attack, it could be more damaging to your company, profit and reputation. Make sure you have reliable legal and public relations advice on hand, to help you in response immediately. Top tip: Implementing a cyber insurance
policy can also cover legal costs and compensation. CCR
An attack on your business is never certain but is extremely possible. What you should think about, is how you are going to respond to a threat, were it to happen
www.CCRMagazine.com
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