By Andy Flowers, RPLU, CPCU, ASLI
While there may be those who believe that an online security breach is nothing more than an embarrassing, inconvenient mishap for the business, the reality of the situation is actually quite the contrary. According to a study done by the Ponemon Institute in 2014, a single data breach usually results in about 29,000 breached records, which roughly costs around $201 each. In other words, that’s $5.8 million for the cost of the average data breach!
Listed below are three tips your business or organization can use to maintain its online security and keep hackers away:
1. WRITE YOUR POLICY
Think your business is too small for hackers to worry about? Think again. Size is irrelevant when it comes to online crime and fraud, and smaller businesses are easier targets because of stretched IT resources. Teach and re-teach employees about your security requirements. Write it, communicate it, enforce it.
2. GET CRITICAL ABOUT INTERNET SECURITY
The Internet is a fantastic business enabler, but it can also increase malware exposure if your security does not provide proactive content scanning to track malware and alert you to the potential problems. Select security solutions that can help you conquer the latest threats with fewer distractions for your employees.
3. CHOOSE A SECURITY PARTNER, NOT JUST A VENDOR
Select a vendor who understands the unique needs of security in a small business environment.
• When choosing a security vendor, consider if your vendor is focused on security as a core business or as a part of their conglomerate.
• Check their record. Vendors with a proven track record of years of defense against multiple threats; with knowledge of both small business and enterprise experience can best support your protection
For more information on Cyber Liability Insurance, call 334-263-5535 to speak with a Starke Agency representative that can help you protect your business or organization from cyber security breaches.
Sources:
• TrendWatch https://us.trendmicro.com/us/trendwatch/
• www.worryfree.com
