4 Security Tips for Small Businesses: Stay Safe Online

Checkout these 4 security tips we've put together for small businesses to help you and your organization stay secure on and offline.

• 2-Factor Authentication requires not only a password and username, but also something that only the user possesses, such as a physical token.
• This process can help decrease the chance of identity theft and phishing, because the criminal would need more than just the user's name and password to access online accounts.
• Remember to use this method as much as possible, including with your Google and Facebook accounts.

• Use 12-18 digits, or the maximum number of characters allowed.
• Create a randomly generated password.
• Always use a combination of alpha, numeric, upper & lowercase and at least one special character (for example: Ge!3S@prQjp+71Zam*).

• With a service like LastPass, passwords are protected by a master password, encrypted locally, and are synchronized to any browser. Most password managers also utilize form fillers that automate password entering and form filling while keeping your passwords unique and secure.
• This type of service eliminates the need to write passwords on paper or keep them on a file in your computer which is a security hazard in itself.
• Small and medium business employees often need to wear several different hats throughout the day. If you must leave your desk or computer, always log off so others cannot access your workstation.
• Set a password to access your desktop after the screensaver starts and your mobile device after a short time of no activity as well.
• Always exit sites and apps with security-sensitive data when you're done using it.
• Because most small and medium businesses do not have dedicated IT personnel, an employee may carry the burden of maintaining his or her own computer. Never install a software or app update from the web before researching whether the update is legitimate.
• Never use public WiFi; at a coffee shop, hotel, etc. Public WiFi is nice but it is an easy way for hackers and thieves to gain free access to your company's important/sensitive data or personal information.
  • If you must use public Wifi, make sure you turn off sharing on your computer and perhaps avoid using files that contain sensitive data.

• Set up a consistent schedule to run antivirus scans on all computers.
• Visit our Best AntiVirus Software page to find the best solution for your small business, including spyware, malware and other protections as well.

Many of us have Prey Anti-Theft installed which erases data in the event of a lost or stolen laptop or phone. Our social media manager actually unfortunately had to use this last year and it saved us a huge amount of fear and discomfort. In addition we use apps like find my iPhone and all have passwords to protect devices from strangers accessing them.

We understand the burden and time constraints that these practices can place on a business. However, all it would take is one security breach for any small business owner to wish time had been taken to implement these strategies. Taking these security precautions are crucial so your small business and employees can flourish while staying safe from technology attacks.

Do you have more security tips for small businesses you'd like to share? Have you been victim to a cyber attack? Join the conversation in the comments below.