Business security is crucial for startups because any breach in security can cause significant losses. And a business may fail or experience stagnated growth due to criminal activity. Therefore companies of all sizes should consider investing in security. Here are crucial security measures startup companies need to implement.
Cybersecurity Measures
Owners of startups often think that their businesses are too small to be targeted by cybercriminals; this is a misconception. Startups are just as vulnerable to cyber threats as large enterprises. In fact, small businesses are usually easy targets for malicious users because many of them don’t invest much in cybersecurity. Hackers now leverage digitization to automate attacks and target several companies at once. The less complicated a system is to crack, the more attractive it is to hackers. Startups often face attacks such as advanced persistent threats (APT), distributed denial of service attacks (DDoS), inside attacks, malware, phishing, man-in-the-middle attacks (MitM), password attacks, ransomware, SQL injection attacks, and zero-day attacks.
You must prioritize security when developing your website to safeguard your business from cyber threats. ”Poorly put-together code can result in significant security compromises on the server, from SQL injection attacks getting data out of a database to DOS (Denial of Service) attacks,” writes web developer BANG! Software companies usually update their programs over time to withstand newer types of cyber threats. If your software is not up-to-date, it may expose your company to cyber-attacks because hackers often prey on security vulnerabilities. Furthermore, you must ensure your employees are adequately trained on recognizing signs of a data breach and staying safe when using the office’s network. Consider implementing formal security policies and holding regular seminars on the best cybersecurity practices for businesses.
Cybersecurity threat detection measures have a higher return on investment. And they are easier to implement than remediation actions after an attack has already occurred. Cyber security attacks may go unnoticed without detection measures, such as log analytics, endpoint malware sensors, and site scanners. Of course, some episodes are evident, but you will still benefit from early detection. For instance, with the right measures in place, you can detect some DDoS attacks before they escalate to shutting down your company’s servers. If you’re a victim of other attacks, such as stolen business information and IP, you will not know unless you are on the lookout. In such cases, software such as Digital Shadows and MarkMonitor can help find leaked documents online.
Physical Security Measures
Businesses need to secure their operating locations to protect their properties from theft. Your business line, physical location, and employee count can determine the level of physical security your business needs. You can conduct a security assessment that reviews your security liabilities and entry points to give insight into how much deposit is required. One of the ways to secure your business premises is by installing industrial-strength locks. Commercial rental properties usually allow tenants to change locks because the standard locks may not be ideal for withstanding dedicated criminals. Also, consider installing security cameras on your premises to deter criminals and boost your company’s safety. Many systems allow users to log in remotely and view cameras from anywhere with an internet connection.
Your business security measures should not only protect against external threats but also against internal threats. Nowadays, businesses can set up alarm systems that send notifications directly to security firms. You may consider getting one for your company or an alarm system that alerts local law enforcement about possible break-ins. Furthermore, you must ensure that all your vendors have transparent hiring practices. That way, you’re sure that background checks were conducted on the employees of vendors who gain entry into your premises. You may require key locks for some equipment, such as printers used for financial check printing.
Document Security Measures
You need to secure your important documents and customer information. Sensitive documents should be stored in a secure room accessible only by authorized personnel, and your server room should not be accessible to all employees. Also, ensure that all physical documents have electronic backups securely stored with password encryption. And avoid taking sensitive documents out of the storage room except when necessary.
Only provide electronic copies or photocopies of your company’s sensitive documents on an as-needed basis and ensure they are handled strictly by authorized personnel. Ensure that instructions on the proper storage and usage of records are accessible for easy reference by your employees.