How SME's can Become More Secure

Cybersecurity isn’t just for big corporations—small businesses are increasingly at risk too. From data breaches to ransomware, one successful attack can disrupt operations, impact your reputation, and lead to costly recovery efforts. Here’s a straightforward guide to bolster your business’s defences and questions to ask your IT provider to ensure they’re keeping you secure.

1. Start with Strong Password Management

Weak passwords are one of the biggest risks to small businesses. Ensure your team is using strong, unique passwords for each tool, and consider password managers to keep track of them securely. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is essential too; it adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords.

• Quick Tip: Your IT provider should have MFA implemented on all critical systems and should guide employees on creating secure passwords. If not, it’s time to ask them why not.

2. Regular Security Training for Your Team

Human error is often the weak link in cybersecurity. Regular training on spotting phishing emails, avoiding suspicious links, and reporting potential security risks is crucial. Even the basics—like not reusing passwords and keeping software updated—can make a huge difference.

• Quick Tip: Ask your IT team if they offer cybersecurity training. Employees should be up-to-date on the latest scams and security practices. If training isn’t offered, your team could be missing out on essential skills to protect your data.

3. Keep Software Updated with Patch Management

Outdated software is a common vulnerability that hackers exploit. Software vendors regularly release patches to fix security flaws, so it’s vital to keep all applications, operating systems, and devices up to date. Your IT provider should be managing updates regularly to minimize risk.

• Quick Tip: Check with your IT provider to confirm if they’re handling patch management for all systems. If they aren’t, you might be at risk of outdated software vulnerabilities that are easy targets for attackers.

4. Secure Your Network and Devices

A secure network is your first line of defence. Basic steps like a strong firewall, secure Wi-Fi configuration, and VPN access for remote work are essential. Similarly, company devices need to be secure—think endpoint protection, antivirus, and device encryption.

• Quick Tip: Ask if your IT provider has set up firewalls, VPNs, and endpoint protection on all devices. Without these measures, your network and devices may be exposed to outside threats.

5. Implement Data Backup and Disaster Recovery Plans

Data loss can be catastrophic for a business. Regular, automated backups ensure you can recover essential data if anything goes wrong. Your IT provider should also have a disaster recovery plan in place, so you know exactly how to restore operations quickly.

• Quick Tip: Confirm with your IT provider that regular backups are happening, and ask for details on the recovery plan. Without these safeguards, a data breach or hardware failure could lead to extended downtime.

6. Monitor for Suspicious Activity

Proactive monitoring is key to catching cyber threats before they become a problem. Your IT provider should be actively monitoring your network and systems for suspicious behaviour, alerting you to potential security incidents.

• Quick Tip: Ask if they offer real-time monitoring and threat detection. If they don’t, your business may be vulnerable to unnoticed attacks that could escalate quickly.

Cybersecurity Checklist: Ask Your IT Provider

To make life easier, we have created this checklist that you can ask your current IT provider to confirm if they have the basics covered for you:

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and strong password policies for all accounts
• Regular cybersecurity training, including simulated phishing exercises for employees
• Routine software updates and patch management on all devices and systems
• Network security with firewalls, VPN, and endpoint protection on all devices
• Regular data backups and a tested disaster recovery plan
• Real-time monitoring and threat detection for suspicious activity
• Segregated guest Wi-Fi network to prevent unauthorized access to business systems
• Data encryption for sensitive information both in transit and at rest
• Secure IT partner - do they have Cyber Essentials & ISO27001?

Need a Second Opinion?

If you’re not confident in your current cybersecurity setup, we’re here to help. Our free, no-obligation cybersecurity audit will assess your existing defences and provide tailored recommendations to improve your security posture. Don’t wait until an incident happens—Book your free audit today and take the first step towards a safer business.

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