The ability to connect with anyone in seconds, as well as the way we study, work, and even entertain ourselves, have all benefited from technological advancements. It has also opened up a world of opportunities for various new businesses to introduce their products and services to the market, which is why the number of startups has increased. However, it has given cybercriminals the opportunity to develop new ways to exploit businesses, individuals, governments, and even startups.
Nobody can remain unaffected any longer. It’s time to take action and safeguard yourself, your product, and your customers from harm. Fortunately, you can take a variety of steps to protect your company, ranging from implementing cybersecurity tools like SEON’s identity verification tool to different methods of file backup and implementing additional levels of protection with multi-factor verification.
1. Recognize and accept the dangers
Some startups may believe they will not be targeted by a cyber-attack because they are too small or insignificant, but this is not the case. Cybercriminals aren’t concerned with your size; all they care about is making money. The sooner you accept the risks, the sooner you will be able to take action to mitigate them. A risk assessment is the first step that any startup should take. If you want to protect yourself from internal and external risks, you must first understand them. When launching a new product, starting a new business, or developing a new marketing strategy, you would investigate risks; the same principles should be applied to cybersecurity.
2. Formulate a cyber-security strategy
Companies can no longer ignore the threat of cybercrime, and it is past time for them to take action rather than wait to be victims. They will be able to prevent various types of online dangers and protect their business and customers by developing a proper cyber security strategy. To develop a cybersecurity strategy to mitigate the risks identified in the previous steps, you can use a variety of cybersecurity tools such as antivirus programs and firewalls, ID verification, or even IP analysis.
3. Keep all of your devices up to date
Cybercriminals are known for working smarter, not harder, which means they are always looking for new and easier ways to exploit companies. Using security vulnerabilities in various programs that the company has failed to patch is one of the easiest ways to gain access to networks and breach data. You will be able to patch those vulnerabilities before cybercriminals have a chance to exploit them if you perform regular updates.
4. Provide training to all employees
By falling for a phishing attack, using unsecured WiFi networks, or even using simple and repetitive passwords, your employees can unintentionally cause a cyberattack aimed at your company. You can mitigate the risks and protect your business by educating them about the threats they may face, how to recognize them, and how to prevent or respond to them if they occur.
The threat of cyberattacks will never go away, but if you follow these four steps, you can keep your startup safe from them.
Learn more from Cybersecurity and read Cybersecurity Tips for Remote Workers.