Are you setting up a new business? Read on to find out everything you need to know about the security solutions you’ll need to ensure your business operations, data, and workplace are both safe and secure.
IT/Network Security
Hackers are a threat for both small businesses and large corporations. Regardless of the size of your new business, you need to take steps to ensure that your network is safe and secure from external threats. In order to do so, you’ll want to consider the following steps.
- Get a firewall.
The first way to thwart would-be attackers is to identify vulnerabilities by scanning for open ports, which are used by hackers to gain access to your network. A correctly configured firewall is your first line of defense against hackers. It locks down any open ports, and allows the network administrator to set rules as to when ports are open for running services. - Make sure your firewall is password protected.
One of the most common mistakes made by new business owners is thinking it’s enough to simply drop a firewall into the network and turn it on, allowing it to run with the default password. In most cases, it’s extremely easy for hackers to identify the default username and password. Take the time to set your own password. - Update your router firmware.
Your network equipment needs to be updated on a regular basis. In particular, firmware including a router and/or firewall will be outdated with a year of being shipped; it’s up to you to update it. Keep in mind that not all router vendors will let you know when it’s time to check for new firmware versions. - Block pings.
You can control how visible your router and/or firewall is to the outside world. One of the simplest ways for a hacker to infiltrate your system is to send a ping request, which allows them to see if a network device will respond. Once a device on the network responds, the hacker can explore further to see what he can exploit. By blocking network pings, you can make it more difficult for attackers to infiltrate your system. - Conduct a scan.
One of the easiest ways to know whether your system is vulnerable is to scan your network in the same way that an attacker would. Network scanning tools used by researchers and in some cases, hackers, are readily accessible. When you conduct a scan, you’ll see what they see and you’ll be able to identify open ports and make the necessary changes.
Physical Building Security
Developing policies to secure your worksite is another important concern when you’re starting a new business. The right security measures should successfully deter potential intruders. Here are some things that you can do to ensure your employees, equipment, and goods are both safe and secure.
- Keep entrances, exits, and windows secure at all times.
Use locks to control access to the building. Codes, cards, keys, or ID badges are commonly used to ensure that only regular staff have access to your workplace. Conduct regular checks to make sure that entrances, exits, and windows are locked. - Get a security system.
If you have a large worksite that needs constant supervision, consider hiring security. If not, a security system that alerts police in the event of suspicious activity or a break-in on the premises is the next best option. Do not give out security system passwords to staff unless absolutely necessary. - Install a CCTV system.
Monitor the entrances and exits of your building or complex, as well as any hallways and stairwells. If you conduct financial transactions or store money or other valuables on-site, monitor those areas, too. - Make sure your parking lot is well-lit and secure.
Don’t forget about the areas around your workplace. Ensuring your parking lot is well-lit can deter unauthorized visitors, and dummy CCTV cameras as well as barriers such as swing gates can prevent criminals from accessing your parking lot. - Secure valuables.
Replacing expensive technology can be very expensive. Use safes, security cables, or clamps to prevent the theft of valuable items kept on the premises. In addition, protect computers and laptops with passwords to make it more difficult for thieves to access sensitive data stored on them.
Data Backup Security
All businesses need to back up their data, but how can you make sure that your backed-up data is secure? Ensuring the safety of all data—including backups—is an important concern for new business owners. Indeed, data backups can be a significant source of security woes, with a high percentage of breaches occurring when data backups are mishandled. Here’s what you can do to ensure that backups aren’t compromising your business’ data security.
Ensure backup systems are included in security and disaster recovery policies.
Don’t forget to include data backup systems in your data security policy. Almost every other type of security policy—including physical security and network security—applies to data backups as well. Policies that make provisions for accidents and disasters should also include data backups.
- Store backups offsite or in a different building.
If you still do physical backups of your data, this bears repeating: you shouldn’t store your backups in or around your data center. You don’t want a fire or other accident to take out both. Remember to secure the location as you would any other worksite. With that said, for both of these reasons, it makes sense to consider switching to cloud storage for your backup data if you haven’t already. - Password-protect your backups and limit access.
Access rights should be limited to employees who are directly involved in the backup process. Backups should be, at a minimum, protected by passwords. But passwords aren’t foolproof: some hackers will be able to crack the code and gain access to your data. Consider password protection as the first layer of security. - Encrypt your backups.
If your software and hardware support encryption, use it. Encryption is an excellent final layer of defense when correctly implemented and managed. It may also provide added peace of mind. - When choosing a data backup provider, do your research.
Not all business backup services are created equal. If you’re looking for a data backup vendor, make sure to do a thorough investigation of their security measures. Speak to a customer service representative to understand how they will take action in the event of a data breach. If possible, read reviews from other businesses who have used their services.