There’s no foolproof way to escape cyber threats online, so the key is to keep pushing them back. If you own a startup, you want to protect its data as much as you can. But how can you do so?
You might come across several guides about online data protection. But if you want these tips to work, you should know how to prevent typical startup online security errors.
Keep reading to learn about the six common online security errors among startups and a few quick solutions.
1. Keeping Networks Open
If you want your guests or clients to find your network quickly, keeping it public may seem like a feasible choice. It sounds convenient, but it only makes it easier for attacks to come in.
Users can access your local files just by connecting to your network. Making your network private and using a strong password does so much already, even without extra online security tools.
2. Sticking to HTTP
You have to keep your website open so people can look you up, but have you considered its general security?
The first step to protecting startup data is HTTPS encryption. It secures your connection by encrypting data coming to and from your site. This ensures it won’t be exposed to anyone outside the start and end points.
You can switch to an HTTPS domain by requesting an SSL or TLS certificate on your website. Note that you must renew them often to ensure your site stays secure.
3. Not Backing Up Data
Whether you run a company or not, you should always have a comprehensive backup system in place. This way, you lower the risk of losing valuable data due to online disasters.
If you own a startup, backing up data can save your company from crashing. Moreover, it allows you to keep valuable and sensitive data away from vulnerable spaces.
As much as possible, back up your startup’s data daily, if not monthly. It’s also good to note that more copies can save you more than you think.
4. Poor Passwords
Common cyber threats occur due to poor password protocols. If your organization’s passwords are easy to guess, it puts all your data at risk.
One solution is to have a password manager on your team. They will be responsible for creating complex passwords and updating them regularly. You can add multi-factor authentication upon entering passwords. If you need more help, consider IT consulting services.
5. Delaying Software Updates
Many companies often overlook or delay software updates. Although it doesn’t always seem necessary, skipping those updates could result in security flaws.
Make it a task for your online security team to always keep your systems updated. On top of that, you should make it a habit to go through the update’s release notes before rolling them out.
6. Having Few Layers of Security
The essentials of online security include strong passwords, anti-virus systems, and secure connections. But that doesn’t mean you can rely on those alone.
For a startup, it’s necessary to have extra layers of security besides the basics. It could be additional authentication methods, access control, database protection, and the like.
Protect Your Company by Avoiding These Startup Online Security Errors
You can use tips and security tools to protect your data. But the key to really keeping your company safe from cyberthreats is to understand startup online security errors. This way, you know what to do and avoid at the same time!
Do you want to learn more? Check out our blog for other tips.