Even the smallest businesses are finding that online threats such as cybercriminals and data brokers are a real threat, making infrastructure security something businesses must invest in if they want to minimize their material risk. Infrastructure security refers to the layers of defense on your computers, network, and cloud services. It is also important to note that ongoing cybersecurity training is as important, if not more so, than the technical safeguards such as antivirus.

If your business hasn’t invested in cybersecurity yet, you’re putting your reputation at risk. Here are three ways you can make cybersecurity a priority to keep your business safe from online threats.

Control and Restrict Access to Your Networks

One of the main reasons online threats are able to penetrate a business’s security system is because of unrestricted access to computers on internal networks. Cybercriminals take advantage of these poorly secured computer networks to steal data, create persistent threats, and extort cash. Research by Kaspersky Labs found that average cost of a single breach thanks to ransomware, poor password hygiene and other factors is around $101,000 for small and mid-sized businesses.

The best way to avoid a breach is by making sure that each employee uses their own account and unique, complex passwords. Your company should also set up appropriate levels of access for employees so that only employees that need access to more important financial records, client information, or intellectual property can access that information. Also critical: Use multifactor authentication wherever possible.

Conduct Drills

Just like schools run fire drills, IT service providers should run simulated phishing and cyberattacks to keep companies and employees on their toes. Your business should engage with cybersecurity companies for vulnerability testing, in which professionals will attempt to find ways to access to your networks, computers, and cloud services.

Perform Regular Updates

It's important to keep software up to date so that it effectively defends against new threats. If you fail to keep your operating systems and applications updated, you’re running a huge risk. It’s like leaving your home or car unlocked: someone can walk in at any moment. There are new vulnerabilities being discovered every day, and your systems need to be up to date to fight against emerging threats.

Taking the time and effort to make cybersecurity a priority is the best way to ensure your businesses' online security. New River Computing offers an advanced security solution, Guardian Fortress to help reduce your company's material risk. Please contact us if you want to take the next step in your cybersecurity endeavors.