Without question, every small business owner knows that everything in their business is a priority. With a limited budget, small businesses need to ensure they’re getting the most results. Security isn’t always a top concern for many.
Businesses today rely heavily on several digital components. If a computer or network gets compromised and businesses can’t access those digital tools, they can’t perform, and they could possibly fold as a result.
It’s for this reason that it is necessary for small businesses to have antivirus protection. But they should be going a step farther than that.
Logic And Common Sense Isn’t Enough
Many small businesses choose to avoid antivirus software and other security tools because they rely on common sense. There are several articles online that speak to security, and have two-factor authentication, a strong password, and how to exercise caution when people are emailing documents or links to sites.
Common sense can go a long way to keep computers safe, but there is more that’s needed. For example, business owners may adhere to conducting their own due diligence but that doesn’t mean their employees do.
Furthermore, phishing attacks have become more sophisticated so it can be hard to tell legitimate sites from fake ones.
Human error is bound to happen and relying on common sense is risky; it creates costly mistakes and causes unnecessary stress.
A Single Strategy Isn’t Enough
Some small business owners may think that a firewall is sufficient protection against external threats; however, that isn’t a sound strategy.
Hackers have developed sophisticated tools to bypass passwords or pose as people businesses know to extract information. They can infect computers on the click on a link. Firewall or not.
Business owners should also consider the following:
- Antivirus
- Anti-spyware
- Anti-malware
- Password protections
- Encryption
- System backups
- Network monitoring
All of this can be a lot for small businesses to undertake; however, the more of these systems that are in place, the less likely businesses will be targeted. The question these days isn’t a matter of if a hacker will attack, but when he/she will strike. With good defenses, a hacker will move on to easier targets.
Consider The Costs Of Getting Hacked
When a cyberattack happens, it’s not just the result of that hack that’s damaging. Small businesses also suffer from:
- Business interruptions. Antivirus software actively seeks viruses and quarantines any affected files. Without it, viruses can halt business operations while the problem is being addressed.
- Lost revenue. When a cyberattack shuts down a business’ systems and infrastructure, the business will likely lose money.
- Total business failure. The ultimate downside is that businesses is are unable to recover from the attack and they shut their doors for good.
Adapt to New Threats
Hackers are no longer going after big businesses but also small businesses alike. They’re continuing to create stronger and newer threats to bypass security systems. Fortunately, anti-virus software and other security software is being constantly updated and tweaked to handle these issues.
For the best possible protection, having these systems and keeping them updated regularly can ensure that businesses remain safe, secure, and operational.
Mtek Digital Managed Business Service
Mtek Digital provides help with virtually any business technology requirement. From IT services to Web and Video Marketing, we’re capable of servicing the tech industry throughout Canada. Contact us today.