Does the increase in cybercrime have you worried about your sensitive data?

That isn’t surprising. The FBI internet crime report stated that there were $2.7 billion in damages because of internet crime in 2018.

There are more problems caused by hacking than ever.

You need to create policies for your company that protect your information. But where do you start?

Keep reading to learn five things you can do to help keep your data safe.

1. Encrypt Your Data

If you have data, you need to protect, encrypting it is one of the best ways to prevent unauthorized access.

When you encrypt your data, you create an access key that you need to enter before you can unencrypt the data.

Encryption means that nobody can access it without the proper information. If you try to look at encrypted data, the only thing you will see is gibberish.

Encryption is even more critical when you are moving data. Transporting data opens your data up for interception.

An encrypted file will prevent access, even if someone does get their hands on it.

2. Create Access Controls

If you have a lot of people who work at your company, not everyone should need access to all the company files. Giving this access to everyone only opens you up to more points of attack.

Create access policies that only grant file access to the people who need sensitive information to work. If someone doesn’t need access to specific data to do their work, they shouldn’t be able to see it.

3. Invest in Employee Training

It doesn’t matter how secure your business information is if an employee accidentally exposes it.

A poorly trained staff is still the most common reason for security breaches. This trend will probably continue in the future.

Make sure you train your staff on your security policies, so you minimize the chance of employee error.

4. Create a Backup and Disaster Recovery Policy

If you have your data secured, that’s great. But what happens if a disaster happens and you lose it?

You need to backup and disaster recovery policy in place for these situations. Your data should be backed up at several points. When an accident happens, your recovery policy will guide you on the steps required to restore your information.

5. Create a BYOD Policy

A bring your own device policy will inform your staff on the rules for bringing personal devices into the workplace.

While personal devices can increase productivity, it also introduces new ways to breach your company network.

Make sure you have clear policies in place, so your staff doesn’t introduce potential threats to your network.

Make Sure Your Sensitive Data Is Protected

Your data is the life of your business. You need to take steps to make sure to protect any sensitive data you have from unauthorized access.

There are more ways than ever to compromise your company, so make sure you take an inventory of everything and don’t leave anything to chance.

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