Getting ‘online’ is crucial to the day-to-day operation of most modern businesses. Whether it is used to send emails, process transactions, or run a commercial website, the internet can be the key to a business’s growth and success; however, it comes hand-in-hand with an element of risk. Cybercrime is on the rise and it’s important to take appropriate steps to make sure you stay protected.
In the following blog, we offer 10 useful tips to get you started and explore why cyber liability insurance – such as that offered by Rigby Financial – could be a worthwhile investment.
Invest in Cyber Liability Insurance
Cyber-security attacks are more prevalent than ever before; however, by following these simple steps, it is possible to protect your business and reduce the likelihood of a breach occurring. It may also be worth investing in cyber liability insurance, such as that offered by Rigby Financial.
Our cyber risk insurance policies protect against the financial impact of cyber-crime, covering damage that is caused by viruses, hacks, identify and intellectual property theft. We have a wealth of experience and knowledge in this area. So why not call us today on 01744 889944, or fill out our online contact form, and find out how cyber liability coverage could be of benefit to you.
1. Ensure everyone is on the same page
It is important to define your business’s approach to cyber risk management – including how much risk you are willing to tolerate – and communicate this clearly with all staff. Perhaps circulate a ‘guidance sheet’ on your company’s strategy and make sure that everyone is on the same page.
2. Keep your ICT systems up-to-date
When it comes to your ICT systems, it is good practice to start with a secure baseline build and then update the system regularly in line with your current business needs. Remove any features that are no longer needed and ensure that all your ICT functions are patched against known cyber threats.
3. Connect to a trusted network
Crucially, you should only ever connect to an internet network that you know and trust. It is also worth investing in security controls, such as antivirus software, and installing firewalls. This reduces the exposure of your ICT systems to network-based cyber-attacks.
4. Manage user access and privileges
Only give staff access to the ICT systems and functions that they need to do their job. This is called ‘Least Privilege’ and it is a simple yet effective way to prevent deliberate and accidental attacks.
5. Teach staff about cyber-attack prevention
Staff are often unaware or do not fully understand the cyber risks that are faced by a business. It is worth providing a security training and awareness course for your employees – improving their cyber-security expertise and showing them how to help prevent potential attacks.
6. Have a plan of action
Thanks to the current prevalence of cyber-attacks, the chances are, your business will experience a security breach at some point. It is critical that you are prepared for such a breach. Make sure you have an appropriate ‘incident management’ policy in place and react as quickly as possible.
7. Run regular malware scans
Malicious code and content, also known as malware, has the potential to seriously damage the confidentiality, integrity and availability of your business’s ICT system. However, such risk can be easily avoided by using malware checking software and setting up regular, automatic malware scans.
8. Closely monitor your ICT activity
It is a good idea to monitor your business’s ICT activity, across all divisions and departments. Not only will this help to detect any cyber-attacks, but it will also allow you to check that staff are using ICT systems appropriately. This can help to improve the overall security of your business.
9. Regulate the use of removable media
USB flash drives are a fantastic way to store and transfer large amounts of data; however, they can also be used to steal valuable information, introduce malware or sabotage your business. Be sure to manage their use appropriately, perhaps by applying security controls wherever necessary.
10. Create a ‘remote-worker’ policy
As a result of modern technology, ‘remote-working’ is becoming an increasingly popular option for many business owners and their employees – but it can expose your organisation to an increased number of risks. You should, therefore, establish a risk-based policy, which covers all types of mobile devices and remote working, and outlines how remote cyber-attacks should be dealt with.
Invest in Cyber Liability Insurance
Cyber-security attacks are more prevalent than ever before; however, by following these simple steps, it is possible to protect your business and reduce the likelihood of a breach occurring. It may also be worth investing in cyber liability insurance, such as that offered by Rigby Financial.
Our cyber risk insurance policies protect against the financial impact of cyber-crime, covering damage that is caused by viruses, hacks, identify and intellectual property theft. We have a wealth of experience and knowledge in this area. So why not call us today on 01744 889944, or fill out our online contact form, and find out how cyber liability coverage could be of benefit to you.