Cyberattacks are a growing threat to businesses of all sizes. In 2021, the average cost of a data breach was $4.24 million. By following these tips, you can help to keep your IT systems secure from cyberattacks:
Have a strong security policy in place: Your security policy should outline the steps you will take to protect your IT systems from cyberattacks.
- This policy should include things like password management, data encryption, and firewall configuration.
- Password management: Create a strong password policy that requires employees to use strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Data encryption: Encrypt sensitive data at rest and in transit to protect it from unauthorized access.
- Firewall configuration: Configure your firewall to block all incoming traffic except for traffic from trusted sources.
Keep your software up to date: Software updates often include security patches that can help to protect your systems from known vulnerabilities.
- Make sure to install software updates as soon as they are available.
- Security patches: Install software updates as soon as they are available to protect your systems from known vulnerabilities.
- Bug fixes: Install software updates to fix bugs that could be exploited by hackers.
- New features: Install software updates to add new features that can improve the security of your systems.
Use strong passwords and change them regularly:
- Length: Passwords should be at least 12 characters long.
- Complexity: Passwords should include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Uniqueness: Passwords should be unique for each account.
- Change regularly: Passwords should be changed regularly, at least every 90 days.
Encrypt your data: Data encryption can help to protect your data from unauthorized access.
- At rest: Data that is stored on your computer or in the cloud should be encrypted.
- In transit: Data that is being transferred between your computer and another device should be encrypted.
- Cloud-based services: Use cloud-based services that offer encryption for your data.
Use a firewall: A firewall can help protect your system from unauthorized access.
- Configure your firewall to block all incoming traffic except for traffic from trusted sources.
- Use a firewall that is regularly updated with the latest security patches.
- Use a firewall that is from a reputable vendor.
Be aware of social engineering attacks: Social engineering attacks are a common way for hackers to gain access to your systems.
- Be wary of emails or websites that ask for personal information.
- Never click on links or open attachments from unknown senders.
- Be aware of the latest social engineering scams.
Have a disaster recovery plan in place:
- Include steps for restoring your data and systems.
- Test your disaster recovery plan regularly to make sure it works.
- Keep your disaster recovery plan up to date.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your IT systems secure from cyberattacks.
Here are some additional tips for keeping your IT systems secure:
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA). 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your phone in addition to your password when logging in.
- Be careful about what information you share online. Don’t share your personal information, such as your Social Security number or date of birth, on social media or other public websites.
- Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect your system from known vulnerabilities. Make sure to install software updates as soon as they are available.
- Use a security awareness training program. A security awareness training program can help your employees to learn about the latest cyberattacks and how to protect themselves.
- Monitor your system for suspicious activity. Use a security monitoring solution to detect and respond to suspicious activity on your system.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your IT systems secure from cyberattacks.
If you need help with your cyber security infrastructure and practices, we’re here to help. Contact The Law Firm Management Academy today. Our team of knowledgeable coaches can work with you on the creation of your cyber security infrastructure or any IT needs you have. Feel free to email or call us at (844) 627-4736 to learn more.
