3 Easy ways to keep your business and customers safe
When it comes to protecting your business, there's no such thing as too much protection, especially with 43% of cybercrime targeted towards small businesses. If you're short on time or resource, the good news is even the smallest measures can go a long way in keeping your business and your customers safe from hackers.
1. Use 2-Factor Logins Wherever Possible
Chances are you've encountered two-factor login before - whether you hate it or love it, it's a must have when it comes to protecting your business. While a strong password is a good start, it's not enough these days. With two factor authentication, you add an additional layer of security, making it harder for bots (or people!) to gain access to your systems. Two factor can be a combination of any of the below:
A strong and secure password
A code sent to your phone or an authentication app
An authentication app that sends notifications like Okta, Google or Microsoft Authenticator.
Is it worth it?
Yes!
Even if someone steals your password, they can't login without the second factor, making it a quick and easy way to protect you, your business and your customers.
Not convinced?
According to Google two factor authentication blocks 100% of automated bot hacks, while a 2019 report from Microsoft found that 2 factor login blocks 99.9% of automated attacked. Whichever way you look at it, two factor is worth it.
2. Make logging in and out a habit
We're pretty well versed in logging into our devices and accounts, but maaaaybe not so good at logging out. It can be easy to forget when you're in a rush or maybe you just want to save time when you next go to login. Either way, it's a security risk, even when it comes to your personal devices.
The solution?
Start logging out. If you're after speed when it comes to logging back in or have a complicated passwords that can be hard to remember we recommend password managers or single-sign on tools that manage logging for you. This way you'll still be able to login quickly and seamlessly, as well as keep your systems safe.
3. Keep an eye out for phishing emails
Phishing emails are one of the most common ways scammers try and trick people into giving away their passwords or clicking harmful links. While some are easy to spot, they're becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder to tell what's real and what’s not.
Here's some red flags to watch out for:
Spelling errors or odd grammar: A spelling mistake here or there is natural, but an abundance is something to be wary of.
Emails with urgency: Creating urgency and putting the pressure on is a technique scammers often use, whether via email or over the phone.
Mismatched names and email addresses: Typically, a senders name and email address should match, emails should be related to the company the sender works at (e.g. @amazon.com) and should not include random numbers.
Suspicious links: Short links might be great on social, but on email they're a no go - after all what are you trying to hide?
What to do if you encounter a suspicious email?
Don't click on any of the links.
If you think the email might be legitimate, call the sender using details previously provided or on their website.
Report or flag emails as phishing.
Give your team a heads up in case they have or might receive a similar email.
Mark it as a spam or block said email address.
While these three methods aren't going to protect you from every attack out there, they're a step in the right direction and can help act as a deterrent.
Want to learn more?
If you're looking for more ways to protect your business, check out our other blogs here.