05 Aug Establishing a Cybersecurity Policy for Your Business

The pros of good policy

You know how important cybersecurity is when it comes to the success of a business. But digital protection isn’t only about the types of anti-virus software used or available backup options. In fact, arguably the most essential characteristic of good cybersecurity are the policies – that is to say, the rules and guidelines established for the management, transportation, protection, and handling of information.

Therefore, it’s imperative to establish strong guidelines for your business. Naturally, every company will have its own cybersecurity needs. However, there are plenty of standard rules an enterprise can follow. We’ll share a few essential tips to help establish a cybersecurity policy for your business.

1 – Create Access Tiers

Not all staff should access all data types and networks. For example, data for customer service should not cross over with data in accounting. The primary reason is that if a network intrusion occurs, tiered networks limit what’s lost or accessed. Breaking off a company network into sections keeps data where it needs to be and mitigates the impact of damage caused by malware or other problems.

2 – Limit Physical Access to Devices

If your company uses laptops or mobile devices for work, always require them to be used on premises and returned to a specified area. If you allow for device use off-site, establish strict guidelines on their handling/use (such as only allowing work data to be stored on a laptop, only accessing business programs, etc).

3 – Develop Plans for Mobile Devices

Does your enterprise use a BYOD strategy (bring your own device)? If so, you need a policy regarding how staff access company data with their smartphone or mobile hardware. Each mobile device is a potential intrusion point for dangerous third parties, so devices should have limited apps without personal information loaded on them. Anything stolen from said device can potentially be used against the company.

4 – Implementing Guidelines

Human error remains as the penultimate Achilles Heel to even the best cybersecurity platforms. Therefore, injecting guidelines into data handling policy is a major part of good security. 

Staff should understand what should be accessed on company premises, what can be sent through emails/messages, and what to do in case of intrusion or lost data. 

5 – Informed Staff

One final critical piece of advice is to keep staff informed about best cybersecurity practices, including how to identify malicious threats ranging from phishing emails, bad links, malware, and dangerous websites. Staff that understand cybersecurity concerns and the nature of intrusions are less likely to commit to risky behaviors or activities which puts company info in peril.

There are a range of other techniques a business can employ to create an effective cybersecurity. You can also work with an MSP to understand good practices while working with technology road maps to ensure you have the best in cybersecurity.

If you want to learn more, you can contact us at Bytagig.