New plans could mean tougher cybersecurity for SMEs
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How can SMEs protect themselves online?
Consider upgrading software
Anti-virus software is a must for companies. If you’re looking to upgrade, products with Anti Malware Scan Interface (AMSI) capabilities provide the most thorough service when it comes to restricting untrustworthy files.
But if you’re working to a stricter budget, simpler technology controls can produce some cheap wins when reducing risk. Advanced email filters, for example, can help to find and block suspicious-looking files before attachments are downloaded.
Outsourcing your protection can also be a simple and low-cost way to manage threats
However, there are some considerations you need to make if you choose this route.
Educate your team
The software company Tessian recently found that 47% of people working from home had clicked on a phishing email, meaning your employees could be a weak point in your security.
Investing in a training provider will educate staff about healthy cybersecurity, and make them aware of the basic preventative methods such as setting safe passwords, recognising email scams, and updating computers at the end of the working day.
Lee Wrall is Director Managed Services Provider, Everything Tech. Wrall said: “With effective security awareness training, a business can transform employees into a solid line of defence against cyber-attacks, by helping them identify, avoid and report sophisticated attacks. The training can simulate a cyber-attack and be created bespoke to a business so employees can understand what could happen and what to look out for when carrying out their day to day role.
“Offering security awareness training to staff is quick to deploy, runs in bitesize segments and will reduce the likelihood of human-caused data breaches and create a strong culture to combat cyber-attacks on your business.”
Make use of government resources
The government’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) already offers a raft of cyber security support and advice on identifying business-wide risks and vulnerabilities – including the Cyber Assessment Framework – as well as specific Supply Chain Security and Supplier Assurance guidance.
There is also advice on defending against ransomware attacks, while the Cyber Essentials scheme offers small and medium-sized firms a cost-effective way of getting basic measures in place to prevent the vast majority of cyber attacks.
High-profile scams are also generally posted on the National Cyber Security Centre website.
You should use this, and other government sites, to flag potential threats to your workforce and help them stay alert.
Secure wireless networks
Attackers often exploit weaknesses in the security of wireless networks. As more people work from home or flexible shared workspaces, companies are becoming vulnerable to network breaches.
Basic precautions, such as regularly changing the default password of your router, can help to minimise this risk. Make sure your router’s built-in firewall is activated for another simple defence against cybercriminals.
Attackers can also spy on network traffic to learn passwords or redirect users to a malicious website. Popular business VPNs like Perimeter 81 or NordVPN can be bought to help protect company data by providing a secure network and internet connection.
Gloss