Data protection can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks that could negatively impact your business and your reputation. It is crucial to understand the best practices for protecting your sensitive information and follow them. Any breach of your private information could result in lawsuits or fines that could have long-term implications for your company or yourself.
Secure all your devices and files by using the use of a password. This simple step will ensure that hackers are not able to gain access to your information. Use strong passwords that are complex combinations of numbers, letters and symbols. Change default passwords provided by vendors to strong passwords as soon as possible. Keep your anti-virus software up to date and run a security scan on your server and computer.
Do not send sensitive or personally identifying information via email – This visit the site includes Social Security numbers, bank account information passwords, etc. Email isn’t secure, and can be accessed.
Ensure your network and data are secure. Make sure your laptops, computers, and portable storage devices are secured by using strong encryption when transferring information to third party parties and to safeguard the information stored on these devices. It is also vital to prepare a plan to respond to cyber-attacks that includes who you will notify and what you will do (e.g. employees customers, credit bureaus, etc.).
Make sure that you have a copy of all your data. Save the offline copies in a separate location from where your primary copies are kept. This will stop hackers from gaining access to your primary copy or delete it.