As a business, the last thing you ever want to experience is a massive data breach. But with cybercrime becoming increasingly elusive, deceitful, and high-tech, it’s an unfortunate event that could easily happen if you’re unprepared.
But in just a few simple steps, you can protect your personal and business privacy, reduce the chances of your private data being shared online for all to see – and be used against you.
So, here are 4 ways you can secure your online data. From the classic strong password trick to using more advanced ad-hoc reporting systems, you’ll be able to protect your information from ever getting into the wrong hands…
1. Use Ad-Hoc Reporting Tools
Ad-hoc reporting tools are multi-faceted. Not only do they streamline business intelligence and create one-time reports with real data, allowing business users to create ad hoc reports easily, but they’re also incredibly efficient when it comes to securing data.
For example, the DBHawk Ad-Hoc Reporting Tool provides the ultimate ad-hoc reporting and security solution. It lets IT create data access control policies, so they feel confident and comfortable about allowing access to required data swiftly to users.
They’re especially useful in industries such as health care, as they keep information safe – e.g., test results, patient information, etc. while allowing end-users a whole range of options.
2. Install Anti-Virus and Malware Protection
Antivirus apps and protection programs help you to identify malware attacks before they’ve even had a chance to compromise or harm your system. A lot of the tools available today let you scan infected files that have the potential to cause a major security breach. Plus, they also let you know if your systems or devices are being targeted by any malicious actions.
3. Use Strong Passwords
This is the oldest trick in the book, but it’s also still incredibly valid. Having a strong password is the initial defence against any dangerous or unauthorized access to your system and its data. The stronger your password is, the higher level of protection you have against cybercrime, hackers, and malicious software, too.
When it comes to these passwords, you should always make sure it’s something no one would ever guess. Which means no DOBs, first school you attended, or mother’s maiden name malarkey. You should ensure they contain special characters, numbers, and upper and lower case letters. Plus, you should make sure you update them regularly. There’s nothing like keeping cyber criminals on their toes!
4. Make Sure You’re Aware of Who Can Access your Data
It’s imperative that you have restrictions when it comes to who can get into your data and IT systems. The only people who should have access are you – as the business owner – and the people you employ to work in this department.
With this in mind, you should also make sure you employ a handful of people rather than spread these important roles too thinly. Trust is everything, and having a few people dedicated to keeping important data security is paramount to the safety of your business.
One thing to keep in mind, though – if someone leaves, is absent, or is on leave for an extended period of time, it might be worth suspending their access. Explain that this isn’t personal, it’s just for security reasons. They will most likely understand, considering their job is in data protection.
Keep Your Data Safe
It’s no secret that keeping your data safe is integral to business (and personal) success and safety. Taking note of the above four points will put you in good stead to make sure all of your information is secure at all times.