From ransomware to phishing attempts, there are many ways that cybercriminals can infiltrate your company’s network and acquire sensitive data. These breaches can expose information such as financial reports or customer identities and put your business at risk of severe economic harm. While there are many advanced IT support solutions available to defend against cyberattacks, it’s also critical to know how to respond to these incidents and minimize losses. To help your company stay prepared, here are a few steps to take once you’ve learned a data breach has happened.

5 Steps Companies Should Take After a Data Breach

1. Identify the Source  

Your IT support team should have logs implemented to record network activity. Use these reports to determine when the breach occurred, what systems it affected, and what files were compromised.

Once the source is identified, take steps to address vulnerable areas and block future attacks. For instance, you may need to redirect network activity through a more secure channel temporarily.

2. Change Credentials

If hackers broke through the network with user credentials, they could continue to access resources until that information is changed. As soon as you learn of the breach, have your IT support team and employees update their passwords and multi-factor authentication protocols to prevent future access.

3. Recover Lost Data

Some breaches can compromise data or delete it entirely. That’s why it’s critical to have solid backup practices in place as soon as you create a network. After the breach, use these resources to recover files.

4. Consult Your Legal Team

Data breaches have several legal implications for companies—including how they’re required to respond. Your company’s attorneys can advise on how the business should comply with federal and state laws. You’ll also need to review company policies to determine how to best inform affected customers of the incident.

5. Address Vulnerabilities  

In addition to initial damage control, your IT team will need to strengthen the network against future attacks. Using information from the breach, find weak spots and ways you can improve data security—such as by switching VPN providers or installing new monitoring programs. Be sure to test any implemented solutions to ensure they can resist potential threats.

Whether you run a small business or a larger corporation, data security is something you have to plan for. Fortunately, ION Technology Group is here to simplify the process. Based in Voorhees, NJ, this IT support team will introduce your company to a wide range of advanced resources to keep your network secure—including fortified computer hardware, remote monitoring programs, and VPN solutions. They also offer 24/7 assistance to address network emergencies, including breaches and service interruptions. To learn more about their managed services, visit this IT consultancy online or call (856) 719-1818.