Seeing as how the majority of the world has moved online, a migration further exacerbated by the pandemic, digital security concerns must also be kept in view and regularly addressed. Businesses need to ensure the protection of sensitive corporate information while providing customers with safe and secure online transaction processes.
Businesses are concerned with safeguarding their data and improving the granularity of their network security via stringent measures on cloud computing. The vast majority of companies and customers find e-commerce to be the next frontier of the digital age. A rapid adaptation to e-commerce has come in handy for companies as they reduce their brick-and-mortar spaces for large e-stores. So the migration to cloud computing is a logical step toward achieving greater flexibility in e-business scaling.
The Significance of Cybersecurity
The cost to businesses of hacking can be significant irrespective of their business size. According to a recent study, the theft of digital information has become the most reported fraud, surprisingly surpassing physical theft. This statistic highlights the sheer size of daily digital transactions susceptible to being hacked.
Businesses must ensure a cyber security culture to build corporate and client confidence in digital transactions. The customer-facing digital assets such as web stores and apps can act as a passageway for hackers to gain illegal entry. Websites, online ordering systems, and email address lists may be the framework for better services, but it’s a treasure trove susceptible to hacker attacks. These digital assets need stringent security processes.
How to Upgrade Cloud Security
There are multiple ways to secure digital businesses against hackers. Small companies do not need to hire a full-time IT team to ensure their digital assets but instead hire a company that can perform these security upgrades on their behalf. A popular way is employing IP whitelisting security by NordLayer to provide a series of safe IP addresses to protect against data breaches.
A secure network and robust firewall will also allow cyber security measures greater protection from hacking attacks. Regularly updated operating systems and security software will help address any flaws in the security process.
IP Whitelisting:
IP Whitelisting works by making an allow list of IP addresses marked safe to be given access to data and network resources. By denying all and allowing some, whitelisting creates a powerful moat system whereby only a few trusted individuals can bypass the checks.
Whitelisting reduces the risk from typical hacking vectors like password guessing, password stuffing, protocol flaws, keyloggers, phishing scams, etc, by decreasing the available surface area prone to cyber-attacks. It also allows network administrators greater control over who is allowed access via the static IP system. This static IP is the only way to enable IPs to access the allow list.
Regular Data Backup
Ensure a backup of your corporate data on hard drives and remote cloud servers to minimize the damage from hackers’ attempts at data theft and data deletion. Daily and weekly data backup can be set up to be automatically done on the back end.
In addition to that, do regular checks on backed-up data to ensure that it is functional and can be easily restored in case of data deletion or manipulation by hackers.
Install SSL certificate
Small businesses often believe that running their website on HTTP will allow them to create secure online transactions. However, these e-commerce websites are among the easiest platforms to hack.
Using an HTTPS (HTTP +SSP) protocol can quickly improve cyber security via encryption and allow customers to participate in secure financial transactions where their credit card data is protected. Getting an SSP certification is a relatively straightforward process, and it will also help increase SERPs while earning customer trust.
Multi-factor Authentication
Multi-factor or two-factor authentication is another straightforward tool that can be used to increase cyber security. Apart from using passwords, this system allows you to secure a connection by receiving a code on your email or cell phone. This added layer will provide more security and protection from hackers.
Robust Monitoring Systems
A complete audit and record of all the devices, softwares, hardware and equipment used to connect to your system will allow you to gain an insight into who has access to your data. When an employee leaves, it will be easier to automatically change passwords and authority levels.
Use Complex Passwords
Using the same password or easily guessed passwords is a recipe for disaster, as it will surely invite hacking attempts. The best course of action is to use long and complex passwords with various numerical and computer symbols and upper and lower case characters.
Also, refrain from using the same password for many accounts, as once a password is compromised, it will not take a hacker very long to get into multiple accounts. Using a password manager to manage and track passwords will give you peace of mind if you forget a complicated password.
Security Policies in Place
Ensuring firewalls, anti-malware, and anti-spyware softwares are installed, efficiently running, and up to date is an integral part of a digital security policy. Firewalls sourced from a reliable software company will protect your network and access to your broadband routers and other business networking systems.
Cyber Insurance:
Investing in cyber insurance is a good practice as it will give your business an added layer of protection. It can help to cope with losses from cyber attacks and recoup any claims for losses that customers suffer as a result of cyber theft.
Conclusion:
Cybersecurity is a real threat to our digital practices and a hazard many digital businesses are sadly ill-equipped to face alone. Investing in companies and professionals that can protect our digital assets while ensuring a safe gateway for employees and customers to engage in secure digital transactions is prudent.
Combining digital security best practices with efficient security tools will ensure a comprehensive protection strategy is in place. Additionally, educating your employees about the dangers of cyber threats and attacks is a good idea.
A vigilant and proactive security approach is the best defense against threats from hackers in the quest for a well-protected digital business.