Welcome to Vistanet, where we are transforming secure small business phone service to bring you the best the industry has to offer. Today we would like to share our top 10 essential tips for maintaining security in the digital age. As a respected small business phone service provider, we understand the importance of strengthening your communication infrastructure. In this article, we will explore practical measures to protect your business from a variety of security threats. With a few simple tools and practices, your team can be aware of what to look for and how to respond.
1. Follow Instructions from your IT Department
Follow the instructions your IT department gives you. If there is a new app or process you need to follow, do it. They have your best interest in mind and give you the best tools to stay connected and secure.
2. Update your Apps and OS
New vulnerabilities are always being found in applications and operating systems. Usually, updates come out that patch these vulnerabilities, but cyber criminals look to exploit those systems that are not updated. So, it is important to regularly update everything installed on any device that you use for work.
3. Use a VPN
If you are using a Wi-Fi connection that is not your home network, such as public wi-fi, be extra careful. These connections are often not encrypted and can leave you vulnerable to hackers. To prevent others connected to this wi-fi network from spying on you, use a virtual private network. When connected through a VPN, all your data will be encrypted regardless of the network settings. Outsiders will not be able to read it.
4. Lock your Devices
Stepping away from your desk even for a moment could lead to disastrous consequences. Devices should remain locked if left unattended. Setting up passwords on your computer and mobile devices is important. Even if you have a password on your device, that won’t protect you if you walk away from your device leaving it unlocked and easily accessible.
5. Be Aware of Phishing Attacks
A Phishing email is a kind of cyber-attack in which an attacker tries to get sensitive information from you by disguising themselves as someone else. The point of phishing emails is for you to click on a link or download a file. When successfully done, phishing emails gain what we call the big three: Access, Information, and Data.
6. Be Aware of Vishing Scams
A vishing attack is a specific type of Cyber Attack that uses a phone to steal your personal confidential information. While this may sound like a good old fashioned spam call, vishing is much more high-tech than an automated message saying, “you’ve won a free vacation.” Vishing scams are not only common, but they are also extremely dangerous. Most vishing phone calls that occur already have some sort of information on you. However, always ask questions and never divulge sensitive information over the phone.
7. Use Strong Passwords
Passwords are not only a great way to keep your information safe, but they are also completely necessary for every site you will need to get your work done and access your personal data. Simple passwords leave you very vulnerable to threat actors ready to steal your most important data, access, and information. Make your password unique & complex. Avoid personal info. Try using a passphrase instead of a password.
8. Be Aware of Physical Threats
Physical security flaws can put your personal information and your company's data at risk just as much as a cyber-attack. When it comes to Physical Security there are lots of dangers to be aware of. The most common are tailgating and shoulder surfing. Tailgating is a real security issue that happens when someone follows you into your building without proper access. Never allow someone access to your office unless they can show proof they should be there. Shoulder surfing can be difficult to spot. You never know who is peering over your shoulder while you are entering sensitive information on your device. Whether you are at your desk or in a coffee shop, always be aware of your surroundings.
9. Ensure your Mobile Devices are Secure
Having cell phones for small businesses has changed the way we work and connect. Being aware of the dangers that come along with having a business cell phone is the only way to help stop attacks. To keep your devices as secure as possible, we recommend always locking your devices, keeping them updated, staying away from unsecured Wi-Fi, and keeping your devices close to avoid physical theft. Awareness from the owner is the best defense against all mobile device attacks.
10. Practice proper Incident Response
Reporting incidents allows the necessary IT heroes to act and respond to security issues. Having a proper incident response plan in place can help you spot, avoid and report cyber security incidents that are threatening your company.
By integrating these basic practices into your team's daily workflow along with a secure business phone service, you can significantly increase the overall security of your business without making expensive infrastructure changes.
Is your business phone service safe, secure, and confidential? Contact us today for an evaluation of your current service and security needs.
Vistanet is a family-owned and operated independent end-to-end business phone provider with headquarters in Asheville, NC. Founded in 2011, Vistanet is a local, 8(a) Woman-Owned, HUB Certified, Full Service, Telecommunications provider serving businesses from 1 employee to companies with multiple locations and lines. Visit us at 240 Erwin Hills Road, Suite B, Asheville, NC 28806. Hours: By appointment. Email info@vistanet.co or call 828-645-8777.