Data is one of your company’s most at-risk assets. Criminals will steal and make use of payroll information, client identifications, and anything else they can get their hands on. Small businesses are not immune; it’s been estimated that 60% of targeted attacks occur against small and medium-sized businesses, and half of those small businesses that suffer a cyberattack go out of business within six months as a result. – US Securities and Exchange Commission.
These attacks can be expensive and difficult to recover from. It is becoming increasingly clear that businesses of all sizes need to prioritize data security to protect themselves.
Here are some simple strategies you can use to keep your data safe:
Digitize Paper Records
Paper is vulnerable. Someone looking to gather sensitive data can do so by simply taking – or reading – a stray invoice left on the printer or items from an unsecured storage room. By digitizing paper records and switching to software-based solutions, you can decrease your paper use. This will enhance your security while also cutting costs and improving efficiency.
Secure Devices
Your network is only as secure as its weakest link. Once a hacker has access to your network, they can steal your data, install spyware or malware, and do untold damage. Every device that goes onto your company network must be secure including mobile phones, computers, scanners and printers. Some options include:
- Desktop Encryption
- Remote Deletion Software
- Password Protection for Printers
- Data Overwriting
Limit Access
If anyone can just walk into your office, then anyone could also walk away with your data. Your goal should be to limit access to any areas where there are devices that store sensitive data or paper records. A key card system can be added to your print fleet using access cards so if an incident occurs, you will have a record of who was there at the time.
Security doesn’t need to be complex to be effective. Simple steps such as the ones listed here can make a big difference in protecting your company’s data, client and employee identities and other sensitive information.
Is your data secure? Download our guide “9 Hardcopy Document Security Risks” to discover your vulnerabilities and learn about proven protection strategies you can start using today!
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