Protecting Your Startup from Cyberattacks
Whether you recently launched a startup or have been running a successful business for years, you must make cybersecurity a priority. According to the National Security Alliance, 60% of companies affected by cyberattacks go out of business within six months—with the average loss totaling $200,000. For most startups, such a large loss can be nearly impossible to recover from.
It’s crucial to instill proper protocols so your staff partners know best practices and how to respond in the case of a security breach. Start with training your staff on how to backup data on a routine basis, keep software up-to-date, and ignore suspicious websites, links and requests. By keeping staff informed of potential threats and mindful of proactive cybersecurity practices, you will help reduce your risk of online hackers and spyware.
Protecting your startup doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, either. There are plenty of low-cost solutions available that will help add an extra layer of protection. Look into installing anti-virus and anti-malware to help identify threats. It can also be helpful to turn on Microsoft or Google security features that help protect data with firewalls and routine check-ups. Additionally, startups should encourage everyone to run weekly software and operating system scans.
Another great idea is to get a VPN (virtual private network). It hides your IP address so you can go about your daily online activities while appearing anonymous. VPN’s make it more difficult for criminals to track you—lessening your risk of being hacked.
As cybersecurity risks evolve, you must stay up-to-date with your startup’s cybersecurity protection. The overall health of your startup depends on you being proactive. How do you keep your startup protected from cyberattacks? Tweet @StarterNoise.
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Derek Rundell, is a successful business leader, operator, and serial entrepreneur. Derek has founded, managed and sold businesses in the technology, media and finance industries. He sits on several boards and serves as an advisor/investor to numerous established businesses and startups. Startups are Derek’s real passion, and in addition to building his own portfolio of technology, media and financial ventures, he invests in and mentors startups and entrepreneurs. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping other businesses succeed.