For many business owners who have an online site, it is easy to presume that once you have a cybersecurity option installed, like a firewall or a spam filter, that your job is done.
Much like real-life security systems, though, no two properties are the same or have the same needs. Ergo, you would not expect to have a full surveillance system set up around a home, nor would a camera doorbell cover all the access points of a shop. When it comes to online security, you need to not only make sure that you have it, but you also need to make sure that you have the right type.
So, how do you do that?
Look At Your Business Needs
You need to first look at the kind of data that your business handles. This will give you an insight into the kind of security that you need. As standard, you will need HTTPS encryption software, as well as multifactor authentication for you and your staff to access sensitive data.
However, you may need to consider EDR vs MDR vs XDR when looking at guarding different data types, such as client/patient information for healthcare businesses, as well as adherence to other codes, such as HIPAA.
Assess Current Security Features
Of course, you also need to look into the security features that you have and to back them up wherever possible. For example, many online businesses have not only firewall protection, but they also have intrusion detection, as well as alerts when there is unusual activity on the main page of their website. When you have spotted holes in the current security system, you should be sure to contact a professional cybersecurity expert to make sure that you are choosing the right option to protect your data.
Scaling
The aim of any business is to grow and to get as many clients or customers as possible. So, when choosing the right cybersecurity option for your company, you need to make sure that you pick a solution that is able to scale with your business. This will mean checking that the security options you pick can offer flexible licensing options and can be downloaded and used on multiple devices by multiple staff members.
Compatibility
Many websites run on a version of WordPress, and, when it comes to transactions or booking services with your company online, you will need to check that the chosen cybersecurity option is compatible with the infrastructure that you have. You will need to be sure that it can be used across current operating systems, as well as software applications and hardware devices.
Vendor Reputation
Lastly, consider the reputation of the company or vendor that you are intending to use. Look at independent reviews and, if you can, get insight from other small business owners who have used them. Look for things such as good customer support, days of operation (24/7 is best for cybersecurity vendors as hacks rarely happen during working hours), and their costs. You should also ask about their current client list and be sure that the cybersecurity software that they offer can be customised to your company’s needs.
