Unfortunately due to lockdown, there are many people out there that have no money, but plenty of time on their hands. The result: hackers designing, malware that is nothing of the likes that has been seen before.
Local Swindon businesses and businesses around the world are becoming more aware and practised in the field of cyber security. But still, everyday high-profile data breaches are occurring.
So, what can you do as business to ensure that your business does not fall victim to the ever growing threat?
Some firms believe that if you pay the money, your system will be protected, but that is not often the case. Obviously a good IT infrastructure does help. And we all know that there are no companies out there that want to lose data (The results of a breach can in some cases, destroy a business, especially if you are one that gathers personal information). But, money and the system alone can not always protect.
90% of the data breaches in 2019
As sad as it is, IT systems are not the weakest link in your IT security amory, your employees are i.e. human error.
We all know that employees will never willingly cause harm to your business, but it is a fact that the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) was able to attribute human error being the root cause for 90% of the data breaches in 2019.
Police National Computer
Just recently this issue was highlighted when around 150,000 records were wiped off the Police National Computer, including fingerprint, DNA and arrest history details. The issue was said to have been caused by defective code, introduced to the system through a simple mistake from one of its users!
Fortunately, events like this can be surprisingly easy to resolve. But this is only if the correct security and IT measures have been put in place.
Correct back up systems in place
Robust IT data backups can store archives of data to be reinstated if the need arises. This way, if anything gets deleted or compromised, it can be restored to the last proper version quickly and effectively.
So how do you ensure that your SME has the correct back up systems in place?
Keep it remote
The aim of backing up data is to ensure it remains accessible whatever happens to the original, so the further away it can be stored the better. Wherever possible ensure it is not even in the same building or system. This way if your initial IT system is compromised, you have that second layer of security.
Frequency is key
Backups should be taken on a regular basis, so nothing risks being lost. Options are available ranging from continuous backups to once a day. Consider your business and its individual needs, then make the decision accordingly.
Making your backups secure
Backups are like an insurance policy – you never want to use it, but you will be very glad it’s there if you do need to use it. Ensure backups should be subject to the same level of security as the original data. Ensure they are encrypted and stored securely, so that hackers can’t get at your data through the back door.
We are experts at security and backup systems
At System Integration, we don’t just look after the normal IT support services, but we are experts on assisting local Swindon and Wiltshire SMEs with their security and backup requirements. If you think your system could do with a double check to ensure that cyber security is something you never have to worry about, get in touch. We can advise your employees on best practises and can help you ensure that your data is always secure..