Security isn’t something that only large corporations need to worry about. Despite what you may think, criminals find small companies good targets. They assume that smaller businesses are more vulnerable. They may have fewer resources to devote to security and aren’t equipped to handle a building break-in or data breach.
Companies of all sizes need to make security a priority. Your physical and digital assets require protection to safeguard your information and reputation. Here are four steps you can take to shield your business.
1. Make Data Security a Priority
Data breaches at large companies get lots of media attention, but most cyberattacks happen to small businesses. If you run a small- to midsize company, you are far from immune from data breaches and, in fact, can be more vulnerable. Try these ideas:
- Lock up portable electronics at the end of the day: store laptops and other mobile devices in secure cabinets. Limit the number of employees who have access to locked storage places.
- Develop a secure backup system. You may need to retrieve your data if you have a breach. Manually back up your information regularly or automate backups.
- Ensure your employees use strong passwords on their devices and work accounts. Require them to change passwords regularly; many experts recommend doing so at least once per quarter.
- Give employees access only to the systems they need to do their jobs. Once an employee leaves a position, remove them from systems they no longer need to use. This step increases security and should occur even if the employee is still with your company.
- Managed detection and response, or MDR, protects you with solid cybersecurity and frees you from staying on top of ever-changing threats.
As technology changes and more companies move toward digital information, cybersecurity always becomes more important.
2. Check Your Building Before and After Hours
Does doing a sweep of the building seem unnecessary? It’s a small step that can keep you informed of what goes on around your property. Checking the building regularly gives you a sense of when people come and go, when lights go off and on, and what vehicles are usually parked around the area.
A regular check of the premises keeps you attuned if something is amiss. Encourage your employees to do the same and take notice of the surroundings. Tell them to inform you of anything out of the ordinary.
3. Install a Building Security System
If you don’t have a security system, now is a good time to install one. The type of system and security level you choose depends on your circumstances. Cameras and alarms can be effective at deterring criminals before they strike. There is a wide selection of camera types at Verticomm, ranging from dome cameras to fish-eye cameras. The installation of a camera significantly enhances your company’s safety measures and makes it much easier to protect your business. Essentially, with the ability to view cameras and footage from multiple locations, business owners can not worry about their companies even when they are absent. Additionally, smartphone notifications ensure that you stay informed and alerted about any important incidents or events. If you experience a burglary, a security system notifies the authorities as soon as possible.
4. Develop a Security Response Plan
A burglary or data breach is not the time to develop an effective response plan. Design one in advance so that you will be ready when necessary. Hopefully, you will never need to activate your plan, but there’s a lot to be said for the peace of mind a response strategy gives you. Some elements to put in your plan are:
- An exit process if you need to leave the building quickly — designate multiple evacuation routes
- Contact information for key employees, disaster services, first responders and insurance agents
- An emergency kit equipped with first-aid supplies, flashlights, two-way radios, batteries, bottled water and nonperishable food
- A secured, fireproof safe to store critical documents
- Backup files of essential digital and paper information
Even if you have a small facility, it’s a good policy to have routine fire drills, shelter-in-place drills and other drills pertinent to your area.
No business owner wants to think of a burglary, disaster or data breach. The better prepared you are, the more smoothly you can handle situations if they arise. Keep your employees informed and prepared so that you are ready if the unthinkable happens.
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