7 Ways to Secure Your Small Business Online

Most small business owners don’t moonlight as cybersecurity experts. So if you feel a little behind on the latest recommendations around online security and data protection, you’re not alone. 

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Small business operations are sometimes targeted since the lack of a dedicated IT team means that some exposures may be left unchecked. It’s always easier to compromise systems and accounts with vulnerable access points. Even if there isn't as much to gain as hacking into a multinational, for example, you shouldn't assume you're safe. If you think you're too small to be a target, think again.

Actions to Take Today 

No one wants their small business compromised by a breach or other form of cybercrime.  Even if you’re juggling multiple tasks and your calendar is full, just a few small changes can go a long way to make your operations more secure and reduce risk. 

1. Pay Attention to Credentials  

Using strong, unique passwords or passphrases is one of the most critical cybersecurity practices. Every account (including POS systems, routers, and cloud platforms) should have a separate, dedicated password. If you’re worried about being able to remember several complex passwords, sign up for a password manager. 

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Many accounts now require MFA (multi-factor authentication) or have it included as a default setting. If any of your accounts have MFA as a non-default option, be sure to switch it on. 

2. Use a Reliable VPN

A VPN is a tool or service that encrypts your online traffic and hides your IP address. The encryption feature is key for security purposes. In a public or vulnerable network, it helps keep data from being intercepted or tracked.  

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If your team works from multiple locations or frequently connects to public networks, investing in a quality VPN provider is an easy way to secure data and assets. 

3. Always Download Software, Device, and Plugin Updates 

Outdated software is a common entry point for cyberattacks. Known system vulnerabilities are often shared in hacking and cybercrime communities, resulting in system patches by developers to secure the vulnerability. If you’re not updating your software, you’re leaving those known vulnerabilities unpatched and your devices exposed. 

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Turn on automatic updates so your devices remain up-to-date without you having to keep track of and schedule patches. 

4. Keep Business Data Backed Up 

There are many ways that data can be lost or locked, including by ransomware or just basic system failure. Having secure, frequent backups means that if something does happen to essential data, your business doesn’t suffer operational loss. 

One of the easiest ways to back up data is via a cloud service, but it can also be backed up on external devices. Be sure that backed-up data is also encrypted and test recovery processes ahead of time to make sure they work. 

5. Pay Attention to Wi-Fi Settings and Protect Internal Networks 

If a Wi-Fi network is poorly configured, hackers have yet another easy way to gain access to sensitive data. 

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You can secure your router in a few different ways, all of which are recommended to protect your connection effectively. 

• Use WPA3 encryption
• Create a separate guest network for all visitors
• Change a router's default login credentials  

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Unsecured internal networks make it easy for cybercriminals to do even more damage if they do find their way into the system. Role-based permissions (giving employees access to only the data they really need) can help mitigate the risk of a full breach. If a low-access-level account is compromised, it’s hard for cybercriminals to get their hands on the most sensitive data. 

6. Keep Employees in the Loop 

Human error is behind most successful cybersecurity breaches. Regular training is essential to making sure staff can recognise potential phishing attempts and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unsafe files. 

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As cybercrime tactics become more sophisticated with the help of gen-AI and deepfake technology, it’s essential to keep yourself and your employees in the loop about the latest attacks. 

7. Have an Incident Response Plan 

Even with the strongest security measures and most knowledgeable IT teams, no system is immune to attack. A clear, step-by-step response plan can help lessen damage and downtime if your systems become compromised. 

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A good incident response plan includes knowing who to contact during a suspicious incident or a clear attack, and having procedures to prevent panic and unnecessary mistakes. 

The Takeaway for Busy Business Owners

There is no way to secure internet-connected systems with 100% protection. However, a few key practices can make it less likely for your small business to end up in a news story about a data breach. You don’t need an IT department to be more secure. You just need a little bit of extra time and a mindset that prioritizes security for yourself and your customers.