10 ways to prevent cyber attacks in 2020

Did you know that…

With changing work styles and technological advances, new threats to data security have emerged, as is the case of cyber attacks.

2019 is considered the “worst year ever recorded” in terms of data breach activity. Currently, companies have more reasons to worry about the security of their sensitive data, whether it’s employee data, customer data, or business strategies.

In times of digital transformation and process automation, data security may seem like a challenging task. However, if companies take quick and efficient security measures, they’ll be able to respond effectively to this problem.

When it comes to threats to your business, it’s always best to be one step ahead!

Below we list 10 steps that we consider essential for companies to take to prevent cyber attacks.

1. Do not underestimate the threat

In 2016, Cybersecurity Ventures, a company that conducts information security research, estimated that digital crimes would cost globally $ 6 trillion per year by 2021.  Cyber attacks have become increasingly sophisticated and dangerous, being one of the biggest threats for businesses. If projections are correct, no business can underestimate the danger of cyber attacks and should take the necessary steps to prevent them.

2. Use multiple layers of security

Spam filters will eliminate malware and phishing schemes – many of which are targeted directly at businesses. Deploy a firewall to prevent cyber attacks and safeguard sensitive data.

3. If you collect data, protect it

Follow efficient security measures to ensure that your company protects customers and employees’ personal information from unauthorized access.

4. Have a clear privacy policy

Customers need to know that your company is protecting their data. Make sure you have a policy in which you explain how your company keeps their personal information secure. Be direct with customers about the data you collect and what you do with it. Being honest will help you build a relationship of trust with customers and show them that your company values their data and that it’s working to protect it.

5. Don’t collect data you don’t need

Avoid using social security numbers or other personal information to identify the customer. Choose instead to log in with names and passwords. Create more layers of identification to prevent hackers from being able to access users’ data. Delete personal data you no longer need.

6. Learn what you’re protecting

Be aware of all the personal information you have collected, where you are storing it, how you are using it, and who has access to it. Understand the type of data you collect and why a hacker could steal it.

7. Keep your company up to date

Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system are the best defenses against viruses,  malware, and other online threats. Many software programs will connect and update automatically to defend themselves from identified threats. Turn on automatic updates if an option is available.

8. Make backup copies of relevant business data and information

9. Comply with data protection laws

Complying with the rules based on the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), as well as the new LGPD (General Data Protection Act), is essential to avoid compromising your customers’ data and dreaded sanctions.

10. Inform employees

Employees are often the ones who deal with customer data. Therefore, it’s necessary to keep up to date on ways to protect this information, so that it does not accidentally fall into the wrong hands. They should be educated about the latest fraud schemes and taught to use best practices, such as: do not respond or open attachments or click suspicious links in unsolicited email messages.

Prevention is the best strategy to fight cyber attacks!

This crime is a threat to the very survival of companies that suffer reputational damage and lose consumer trust.

Companies should implement systems to prevent and identify cyber attacks and deal with their consequences.

It’s critical to invest in solutions that help you maintain your company’s good reputation and have a secure business for your customers!

We’ve developed GetComplied to help companies comply with data protection laws and avoid sanctions. And the truth is… it’s easier than it looks! You can edit your policies, cookies and user rights on one platform!

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