5 Top Tricks for Internet Security

The global cost of cybercrime damage is tipped to hit $6 trillion annually by 2021 according to Cybersecurity Ventures. With this in mind it’s important that you understand the risks to your business and take precautions to protect it from the ever-changing, ever-evolving threats posed by cybercriminals when it comes to internet security.

According to Price Waterhouse Coopers, cybercrime was the second most reported crime globally in 2016. The UK’s National Crime Agency says that cybercrime now accounts for more than 50 per cent of all crime carried out in that country. And a University of Maryland study found that there is a cyber attack somewhere in the world on average every 39 seconds!

You can’t afford not to act to keep your business safe. These are some of the top tricks for internet safety you should deploy immediately:

1. Secure mobile devices

Cyber criminals don’t just target desktop or laptop computers. Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets can be vulnerable in a number of ways.

It’s advisable to turn on any security features on each device. Best practice password and identification protocols should also be followed, and Bluetooth should be left turned off.

2. Use different passwords

Using the same password on every website you need to create an account for leaves you vulnerable should your details be compromised on just one website. It’s important to use strong and unique passwords for every site. Using a password manager can help you to keep track of all your different passwords. Always use a strong mix of characters and never share your password or write it down.

3. Train your employees

Employees are often the weakest link and account for most data breaches. Teaching your employees to be vigilant and creating a culture of IT security can help to keep your systems safe.

Devise and deliver ongoing education campaigns to ensure that internet security is front-of-mind. For example, you can use DeskAlerts to send hints and tips and even pop quizzes on internet security straight to your employees’ desktops via pop-up notifications.

4. Keep computers secure

Some of the most common threats on the internet include viruses, worms, malware and ransomware. They can come in to your machines in a variety of ways, but the best way to keep them out is to have anti-virus software and anti-spyware software installed and ensure that definitions are up-to-date.

You should also use firewalls, and ensure all software that connects to the internet is up-to-date. Software vendors release patches when there are known exploits that criminals are using to gain access to IT systems.

5. Beware of public wifi

When your employees use public wifi to connect to their company devices they run the risk of sensitive information being accessed by criminals and falling into the wrong hands.

The most preferable way to access the internet should be via VPN.