Keeping your data safe: how to prevent a cyber-attack

No business wants to be on the receiving end of a cyber-attack – what can you do to make sure you stay cyber secure?

Protecting your business from a cyber-attack is critical in today’s digital age – these attacks can cause significant financial losses, damage to your business’s reputation and, potentially, harm your customers. 

In 2022 39% of UK businesses experienced a cyber-attack and, as of November 2022, 83% of these have been identified as ‘phishing’ attacks. Phishing is often used to steal user data, including login credentials and credit card numbers. It occurs when an attacker, masquerading as a trusted entity, dupes a victim into opening an email, instant message, or text message. The recipient is tricked into clicking on a malicious link which can lead to the installation of malware, and the freezing of the system as part of a ransomware attack and the threat to reveal sensitive information.

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your customers.

• Keep software up-to-date: ensure that all software, including operating systems and applications, are up-to-date with the latest security patches – cyber-criminals often exploit vulnerabilities in software to launch attacks.

• Regularly backup data: this is essential because it means that if you fall victim to a cyber-attack all is not lost. Ensure that backups are stored securely offsite and test your backups regularly to make sure they actually work.

• Educate employees: ensure that all employees are aware of cyber-security best practice, such as not clicking on suspicious links, reporting any suspicious activity, and understanding the risks associated with cyber-attacks.

• Use antivirus and anti-malware software: install antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices used in your business to prevent malware infections.

• Secure your network: implement firewalls, virtual private networks and other security measures to secure your network and protect against unauthorised access.

• Limit access to sensitive information: only those who require this type of information for their jobs should have access. Additionally, implement strong password policies, and require regular password changes, to ensure that only authorised personnel can access sensitive information.

• Develop a cyber-security plan: develop a comprehensive cyber-security plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a cyber-attack. This plan should include steps for responding to an attack, who to contact, and how to recover.

By implementing these cyber-security best practice steps, you can help protect your business from attack. Remember to review and update your cyber-security plan regularly to ensure that it remains effective in light of fast-changing cyber-threats.