It’s easy to think data security is a problem only for big companies…but that isn’t the case. Forty-three percent of cyber attacks target small businesses.  Bigger companies have more data stored in their network but small businesses typically have less secure networks.  That makes them an easier target for hackers.

Investing in antivirus and antispyware software, and securing your network are the first steps to protecting your business from a cyber breach. This is the foundation of a cyber security plan but there’s more work to be done to protect your business.

Cyber tactics are intentionally disguised to look familiar and safe, to entice the person who is contacted to react without suspicion.  Ransomware is often disguised as an attachment to an email that appears to be from a trusted source but the address isn’t exactly right.  Once opened, the ransomware encrypts the files on the computer which locks all your files.  Once your files are encrypted, a note is sent to the desktop with instructions to access a key for decryption. Social Engineering is another tactic used to convince you or your employee to release sensitive information or funds.  An urgent request that requires sensitive information is sent from a trusted email address or website that is slightly different.  Trust and urgency is used against you and typically, the difference goes unnoticed until it is too late.  In both these examples, the breach occurred due to human error.

The good news is that you can minimize the chance of human error which would reduce the probability of a cyber attack. Creating a cyber security plan and incorporating the plan into the office culture can be the best line of defense. You may be happy to know that the cost of cyber insurance may include tools and resources to help you get started with your plan.

  • Establish security practices and policies to protect sensitive information.
  • Require employees to use strong passwords and change them on a regular basis.
  • Educate your employees about the threats online and how they play an active role in protecting the business.
  • Provide employee training on cyber threats and the tactics used to access the business network.

Recovering from a cyber attack can be financially devastating for a small business.  A Cyber Liability policy written specifically for your business model protects your business financially while you assess the damage and resolve the issues caused by the breach.  Are you protected?  Call us to review your policy and together, we can assess the threat of a cyber breach.

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