Are you constantly stressed about security? Do you feel stuck because every solution takes time to implement and perfect? Worry no more--today we're here with a few easy ways to boost security right now.
3 Simple security steps you can take now
As nice as it might be to imagine "security" as a sort of destination, the truth is that it's more of a journey. Threats are always changing, and the digital world is only getting more complicated, so no one can ever achieve perfect security--but with a little help from managed IT, you can get pretty close. Rather than throwing all your time, money, and energy into a few big solutions that will only "maybe" work, managed IT can help you find small but effective changes that will help you see results and reduce some stress. Remember, even baby steps make a difference!
To help you get started, here are a few security tips straight from managed IT that you can work on right now:
#1: Create a password schedule
It's not enough to have a long, complicated password with letters, numbers, and maybe even a phrase or two. You also have to change passwords regularly for them to be effective. Create a "password schedule" to help remind you to mix it up roughly every quarter.
Here are some tips to help you create a password schedule:
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Choose a password manager
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Create strong, unique passwords:
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Determine your password change frequency
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Set reminders
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Consider using two-factor authentication
#2: Check for (& Install) updates
If you've been putting off an update or two, now's the time to stop procrastinating. Updates keep your machines safe from the latest threats and ignoring those updates could put your whole company at risk.
Checking for software updates is important for several reasons:
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Security: Updates often include security patches that fix known vulnerabilities
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Performance: Updates can also improve the performance of your devices or applications
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Improvements: Updates may also introduce new features, interfaces or general improvements
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Compatibility: Updates can also ensure compatibility with new operating systems, software, or hardware
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Compliance: Updates may be necessary to maintain compliance with industry regulations or standards
#3: Make a training plan.
Identify some of the things that worry you most about security, and then create a training regimen that covers each topic. Making security a team effort will reduce your stress and help catch accidents, errors, and inefficiencies that might be endangering your data.
Here are some steps to train staff on security:
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Develop a security policy that outlines your security procedures, including things like password requirements, data access controls, and incident response plans.
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Provide regular security awareness training to employees to cover topics such as password hygiene, identifying phishing emails, and security best practices.
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Tailor security training to specific job roles, so everyone understands the risks and best practices that are relevant to their job functions.
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Conduct regular tests and simulations to evaluate employees' understanding of security policies and procedures.
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Regularly monitor regulatory compliance with security policies and procedures, and enforce consequences for violations.
Are you still looking for more security tips? Need a little help from managed IT? Contact us today!