Although an SSL certificate is likely the last thing on your mind as an aspiring entrepreneur, potential hackers are glad it is. Your digital security strategy should be a priority from the onset of your new business venture if you want to increase the odds in your favor.
Unfortunately, today’s entrepreneurs have the odds stacked against them when starting a new business. First, the failure rate for startups is 20% in the first year, 50% in the first five years, and 65% by the tenth year, according to the Small Business Administration and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Second, the cost of data breaches in 2021 averaged $4.24 million, while 43% of the attacks were aimed at small businesses, according to a TechJury report.
If you’re unsure where to begin, here are a few dos and don’ts for creating a digital security strategy that protects your business and customers from cyber criminals from day one.
1. DO keep all your software updated
Cybercriminals are persistent and smart and work daily to find a point of entry into your network to access sensitive financial information. Software manufacturers know this and provide regular updates to ensure your computer or smartphone has the latest patches to block hackers and secure your information. That’s why updating your software is important, even if it interrupts your morning coffee.
2. DO use two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication is an effective digital security technique that provides you with a random code via email or phone to ensure you are who you say you are. This means that even if hackers discover your passwords or other important log-in information, they still can’t access your network unless the additional two-factor authentication has been cleared.
3. DO use strong passwords
Here’s a list of the most common passwords people use. Check it carefully and if any of your passwords are on the list, change them immediately. If you have difficulty remembering long, difficult passwords, use a password vault or similar software to keep up with them.
4. DO buy an SSL security certificate from a trusted source
Investing in a third-party SSL security certificate manager and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) management will keep your business’ network secure by acting as a gatekeeper to who has access to your servers. An SSL certificate manager ensures that your security certificates are up-to-date and your website is protected from all of the newest and most vicious attack methods.
5. DON’T rely on an antivirus program to keep your business safe
While antivirus programs provide some level of protection, the smartest hackers know ways around them. Some antivirus programs create vulnerabilities and allow cyber criminals to breach your online data without your knowledge. Be smart, and don’t let your guard down.
6. DON’T assume your employees know digital security best practices
Keeping your network and website safe involves ensuring that everyone who uses it knows the correct security protocol to follow. Keep your team informed about important best practices like being aware of phishing attacks through social media and refusing to download any suspicious files from an unknown sender.
Staying vigilant
As with any defense tactic, staying vigilant and prepared should be your top priority if you are an aspiring entrepreneur seeking to beat the odds when starting a new business. A little help from digital security experts will make a big difference in your business success and is the one startup expense you don’t want to ignore.
Hardeep has always been a Windows lover ever since she got her hands on her first Windows XP PC. She has always been enthusiastic about technological stuff, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) computing. Before joining PC Error Fix, she worked as a freelancer and worked on numerous technical projects.