Today's business world relies heavily on computers, no matter how big or small the enterprise. This makes many processes easier and faster but can also create vulnerabilities. To keep your operation running smoothly and prevent data theft, you or your IT service should implement the following cybersecurity measures for your small business.

How Simple IT Service Can Improve Your Security

1. Strong Passwords

It’s surprisingly easy to guess most people's computer and online account passwords. Even if they haven't chosen something off the list of the most common passwords, many people still use something simple that can be guessed by a computer program. A secure password includes upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols, and it isn't a dictionary word or a phrase. You should include these requirements in your workplace policies.

2. Training

As the password issue illustrates, one of the biggest computer security risks in your company is people. Your employees may accidentally expose your company to hacking unless they're trained to spot common scams and protect their data. An IT consulting professional can offer training and guidance in these areas.

3. Layered Security

The fewer people and systems that have access to a program or piece of data, the safer it is. There are some systems everyone in your company needs to use, but others can be protected with additional passwords and encryption, making them available only to the specific employees who need them.

4. Updated Software

New viruses are being programmed every day, so having reputable virus protection installed on every computer and keeping it updated should be at the top of your priority list. Update your other software regularly as well; patches often fix vulnerabilities in previous versions that hackers have learned to exploit.

5. Have a Plan

If you do have a data breach or have your operations shut down by malicious software, you need to have a plan in place to handle it. The quicker you act to wall out an attacker or perform virus removal, the less damage the intrusion can do. Discuss your system setup with your IT service and start laying the groundwork for a fast, coordinated response in an emergency.

If you need IT services for your small business that cybersecurity measures, contact Absolute Computers in Sanford, NC. For 20 years, the company has provided Lee County with computer repairs, web hosting, and even computer classes. They pride themselves on their integrity and make their services available to both residential and commercial clients. To schedule a visit, call (919) 777-9125. Learn more about their services online.