Today, more than 32.5 million small businesses are in the United States alone. From small to large companies, cybersecurity should be at the forefront, but it isn’t always.
Not having security could make your company vulnerable to various business data security mistakes. But what can you do to avoid them? Read this guide on the most common data security mistakes and what you can do to avoid them today.
1. Data Entry Errors
Without protecting business data, your company could face a cyberattack like retailer Neiman Marcus in 2014. Hackers accessed the company’s credit card records. This went on for eight months, and about $9,000 was used fraudulently.
Errors could occur within your company too. Data entry errors are one of the most common cyber threats. These could include incorrect units, transposing digits, incorrectly calculating sums, etc.
Check all data entries and use error-checking software. Data needs to be entered by multiple people to catch any mistakes.
2. Poorly Managed Cloud Servers
A data security team will ensure that your cloud servers are working well. You’ll need to back up your cloud storage. Without a proper backup, you could have data loss.
Also, monitor server activity. Without this, it could lead to unexpected bills and resources.
Don’t keep unused or old data. This could lead to performance problems.
3. No Password Security
Don’t allow employees to use easy passwords. Instead, encourage them to use upper and lower letters, special characters, numbers, and a certain length.
They should change it after so much time passes. Hold meetings to discuss cybersecurity in the office and show them how to develop a strong password and how often to change it. During these meetings, you should also discuss how to identify and avoid other security mistakes.
4. Not Using Digital Security Tools
Data protection tools are vital to keeping your customers’ data protected. It’s vital that you know what tools you’ll need or work with IT service providers who can help. They’ll also ensure that the proper tools receive regular software updates.
5. No Data Analysis
Without data analysis, you can’t make informed decisions about your services, products, or customers. You won’t be able to identify or track processes or opportunities.
Once you understand your data, you can make predictions and notice trends. Data analysis tools and services will help.
6. Storage Mistakes
Avoid storing data on devices that aren’t made for long-term storage. This includes USB flash drives.
USB flash drives can corrupt or fail, which could cause data loss. Use devices made for long-term storage and back up your data regularly. Avoid shared storage devices since they could lead to data breaches.
7. Ignoring Data Security
Common cyber threats could occur due to a lack of data security. Without data protection, it could lead to a damaged reputation or data breaches. Encrypt and secure data, have security policies, and use secure data storage solutions.
8. Trying To Do It Yourself
Your data security strategy might miss a few items of importance since you won’t stay up-to-date on security like an IT service provider. You might become overwhelmed and wind up making mistakes. This could hurt your business and reputation.
Delegate tasks to others so you can focus more on your business. Outsource whenever possible to save time and ensure that everything is secure. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing everything is working well.
9. Not Teaching Staff
Many employees won’t understand digital security since it’s not part of their job. They might not know how to keep the computer safe while they work.
Have regular meetings where you discuss virus control, strong passwords, and other helpful tips. Use security training as part of the new hire process and have them relearn it over time.
Educate them on malicious emails and what to avoid. Tell them how hackers will pretend to be trustworthy sources to receive access. Tell them never to click on email links and to notify their manager immediately.
10. Not Controlling Access
Don’t allow all employees access to various parts of your business. They’ll need to have permission to access specific locations.
Have tighter control on access rights to minimize the risk of data going to the wrong person. Only have data necessary for each employee to perform their job.
11. No System Updates
Regular software updates are vital for security. Outdated software gives hackers easy access.
Many updates include security patches. Updates, developers, and hackers are always in a race for your data. Developers want to develop a security patch that protects you from hackers.
Many patches are free and only need your permission to update. Even though new versions are more expensive to update, they can save you on security problems.
12. Not Wanting To Spend Money for Protection
While sticking to a budget is essential, don’t cut corners on digital security. IT spending is vital for the protection of your reputation and company. If you underspend on digital security, you could wind up with damage to the security and reputation of your company.
Understanding the Most Common Business Data Security Mistakes
After exploring this guide, you should better understand the most common business data security mistakes and how to avoid them. Take your time developing a strategy to avoid this.
Are you ready to take the next step in your IT security protection? Contact us today! We’re your one-stop shop from backup and disaster recovery to managed IT support and security assessments. If you have questions along the way, we’re happy to help.