Data protection can help reduce the risk of cyber-attacks that could harm your business and reputation. It is essential to know the best practices for protecting your sensitive information and follow the guidelines. An unauthorized disclosure of private information could lead to legal action or fines. This may have long-term consequences for your company or yourself.
Make sure that all files and devices are secured with a password. This simple step can protect you from hackers gaining access to your data. Use complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols. Change default passwords provided by vendors to strong passwords as soon as possible. Use up-to-date anti-virus software and frequently conduct a full security scan of your computer and servers.
Don’t send confidential or personally identifying information via email – This includes Social Security numbers, bank account information passwords, passwords, etc. Email isn’t secure and could be accessed by unfriendly parties.
Secure your data and network – Use strong encryption to protect your laptops, computers, and portable storage devices. This will help you send information to third parties securely as well as protect information stored on the devices. It is also essential to prepare a plan to respond to a cyber-attack, including who you will be notified and what you’ll do (e.g. employees, customers, credit bureaus).
Make sure you have a copy of all your data. The offline copies should be kept in an area separate from where your primary copies are. This can help prevent attackers from getting access to your primary copies, or from deleting them.
