The Growing Importance of Cyber Security

Keeping your work and office secure is a key aspect in any small business’s success, but how much do you know about staying protected?

Cyber security has been an ongoing challenge for small businesses, big businesses and independent internet users alike for many years. Sadly, as technology continues to evolve and we become even more dependent on it when completing daily tasks, this threat isn’t going to go away. In fact, it’s arguably even more important these days to understand the risks to your cyber security in order to know how to protect yourself.

Data privacy and security are key to any business’s success, which is why the expert team at Syntax IT Support London are here to explain the many faces of cyber security and the factors which threaten it. Let’s take a look.

New vulnerabilities

A constant flow of new technology might seem like a wholly positive thing, but it does also mark the arrival of new vulnerabilities. Research shows that 80% of cyber security threats are made up of familiar risks to new technologies. When using the latest tech, be sure to stay in the loop on any crucial updates which may boost security.

Information wars

We are sharing increasing amounts of financial and personal data online, and as such there are increasing numbers of data thefts taking place on a global scale. Confidential information being left unprotected online can leave businesses in a very vulnerable position, so you need to think twice about the information you’re sharing. When emailing sensitive information within your business, make it part of your usual process to encrypt the files.

Big data worries

In today’s tech-driven society, businesses and enterprises are having to handle more data than ever before. Even with GDPR helping to handle and monitor the sheer amount of data present, the lack of proper internal processes can pose serious cyber security threats. Basic steps like updating software and managing security programmes is vital here.

Internet of Things

The Internet of Things is transforming the way we carry out tasks, relying on the internet for data access and transfer. However, with this new age technology comes hidden problems which can leave personal data at risk of exposure. Faulty communication methods and default password mechanisms can make it all too easy for information to fall into the wrong hands.

Keeping the cloud secure

Many companies are now largely dependent on cloud storage systems for storing documents and data. These can be extremely useful, offering more space than manual systems and making sharing between employees easier than ever. However, without proper governance they can also pose a threat to privacy. Insecure access is a key risk area when it comes to the cloud, so ensure that your system is at least password protected.

Ransomware and blockchain

Ransomware is arguably the biggest threat to online security, and something many businesses fear. This widespread cyber security threat involves files being infected and encrypted, with the criminal then contacting the company and asking for a pay out to decrypt the data. Blockchain security technology is still a relatively new concept, but it can offer a solution to tackling ransomware effectively, eliminating passwords and generating smoother, more secure infrastructure.

Security support as part of business

The best way to truly keep your business’s data secure it to make cyber security part of your normal business processes, in the same way you would with marketing or admin. Gaining IT support can help provide content protection, data security, privacy, IP, passwords and encryption technology to keep your business secure. This will help you stay ahead of the threats and take control of your business data.