The Ultimate IT Security Guide

Published: 16 November 2016

How long would it take to get your business back up and running after a fire, flood, or break-in? Are you aware of the increasing data security risks? Is your IT security  robust enough to protect your sensitive data?

Businesses today face a constantly evolving set of potential threats, from data security breaches to downtime from unexpected events, however only 37 per cent of SMEs feel their organisation can manage IT security.

In the UK alone, nearly 75 per cent of small businesses reported a security breach in 2015. This comes as a result of lower security defences, outdated software and lack of awareness of the potential consequences to the business performance. With the cost of cybercrime expected to soar to $2 trillion by 2019, it is critical to implement a solid business security strategy…

Reasons to embrace modern technology

Enhanced security for all devices

With employees working across multiple devices from multiple locations, it’s not uncommon for devices to get lost or even stolen. With the right technology you can easily manage your devices remotely, including setting access rules and wiping devices that are at risk.

Security compliance

If your business operates in a regulated industry, you may have more complex IT needs than the typical SME. Modern solutions are verified for compliance with a range of standards, such as ISO 27001, HIPAA and EU Clauses. They can also help ensure compliant behaviour by sending you an alert when sensitive info is about to be emailed.

Protection from the latest security threats

Modern solutions can offer peace of mind by allowing you to detect potential security breaches and react quickly. Figures show that in the first half of 2013, nearly 17 per cent of computers worldwide that run Microsoft encountered malware attack, but Microsoft anti-malware products blocked this from happening.

Disaster preparedness and recovery

20 per cent of all companies will suffer fire, flood or storm damage, power failures, terrorism or hardware/software disaster. Of those without a business continuity solution, 43 per cent will never re-open and 80 per cent will fail within 13 months. Your ability to resume operations as quickly as possible is important for your cash-flow, reputation and customer satisfaction. By investing in the right IT security tools you can respond quickly to disasters and return to normal operations with a minimal effect on customer service.

Data Privacy

Under the Data Protection Act, you have responsibilities to protect the personal information you collect and use. This includes a requirement to have appropriate security to prevent it being accidentally or deliberately compromised. Modern technologies have built-in security and privacy components, including best-in-class encryption to protect your data.

Protect your business’ most valuable asset

Evaluate your business security position

When developing a security strategy it is essential to assess where and how you may be exposed to data leaks. Evaluate your IT infrastructure, file sharing and mobile solutions to verify whether they can ensure sufficient level of protection against potential threats.

Get modern protection for evolving threats

Cyberattacks are a real threat to businesses and can be very costly in both pounds and eroding customer trust. Consequently, the right technology can help protect sensitive customer data and prevent a breach.  According to the Institute for Business and Home Safety, an estimated 25 per cent of businesses do not reopen following a major disaster. By moving to the cloud, you have 99.9 per cent service uptime, with data and services always available and regularly backed up.

Prepare an effective contingency plan

In the event of a disruption, having effective contingency plans can help you swiftly contain and eradicate the threat. This should be combined with an awareness campaign for everyone to understand how their actions may compromise security and what steps should be taken to protect company networks and systems.

Implementing comprehensive business security solutions is essential to protect your business against rapidly growing threat of cyberattacks. To begin with, see how we can help protect your business against IT security threats.

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