What Every Business Should Know: 3 Common Myths about Cyber Security

Most people think that finding a cyber security solution is unnecessary, even unreasonable — due to the cost and the burden of slowing down workflow.

Cyber security is a concern for everyone. And yet, business owners and managers still overlook this area. However, the reality is that every good business must have strategic cyber security measures in place because clients and customers expect their information to be protected. Even so, cyber attacks will only become more rampant, sophisticated, and complex—which means things are only going to get worse from here on out.

The following are three common myths about cyber security:  

Myth #1: “I have antivirus, so I’m protected.”

No, you’re not. There are so many viruses that exist and new ones are created everyday. So, each antivirus software is only able to recognize known viruses from their incomplete list. Plus, by the time the software detects an infection on your computer, it’s too late. The virus is already on your computer. Even worse, the virus may have installed remote access software, giving a hacker complete control over your computer.

Myth #2: “I’m a small business, so no one will target me.”

Nowadays, hackers don’t go phish with just one line. They cast out huge nets to everyone, small and large businesses alike. Big companies tend to have better cyber security, so small and mid-sized companies are more prone to cyber attacks because they are seen as low hanging fruit.

Myth #3: “I use MAC’s, so I don’t need to worry.”

MAC’s used to make up less than 10% of the world’s computer operating systems, but their popularity in the workplace is rapidly growing—so much so, that they’ve become appealing to hackers. Today, the number of viruses created specifically for MACs has risen dramatically. MAC users are often caught off guard - when a virus hits, it hits hard.

Working with a highly qualified IT provider, who can design and execute a proactive cyber security plan, is critical to protect your company and avoid IT-related outages.

3 Helpful Tips:

Good passwords

Passwords should not contain names or words that can be found in the dictionary. A good password should be at least 9 characters made from a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

Two factor authentication

On all cloud services, enable two factor authentication. It adds an additional layer of security by requiring a second code before accessing online services. This is usually sent to the user via text or email and is a successful method in securing your online accounts.

Educate your employees

Users are the weakest point of entry in any IT security. Remind employees to be cautious before opening any attachments or clicking any suspicious links. Take the time to educate users on the latest phishing schemes. If they need training, they should contact their IT partner.

It’s true, cyber security can seem over-complicated and troublesome, but you get to determine the short and long term security plan for your business. The most important thing about your business’ cyber security is that you have a plan and that you stay knowledgeable. The stress of potentially getting hacked, which lingers in the back of every business owner and manager’s mind, can be taken care of in the hands of the right IT professionals. Business Computing stays current with technology trends, the latest cyber attacks and other IT news to help clients build and refine their custom-designed cyber security plan.