---

The one threat that applies to all businesses, whether it’s a huge corporation or a new startup, is data theft.

This is a web-related threat that can cause massive disruption in the day to operations of every organization. To curb this threat, it is imperative that companies put in place proper security procedures to keep their data secure at all times. If you’re looking to secure your business data, this post has five helpful security-boosting tips. Keep reading to find out more.

1. Have a smart strategy

Any idea you have that hasn’t been written down remains an idea. Businesses of all sizes need to invest in a detailed and highly exhaustive IT security strategy document. This is better than having a vague idea of your security policies and procedures. Your security strategy shouldn’t focus only on how best to protect your resources and data but must also include things that could go wrong and provide an incident-response program to ensure you and your business is always ahead of the game. There are many solution based programs, such as ISO 27001 acting as the standard for data security management in companies. A strategy is essential because it prevents you from making rash, heat-of-the-moment decisions that might worsen your situation.

2. Keep your wireless network secure

Data threats usually come from networks you’re connected to; when it’s wireless, it’s even worse. Beware of all wireless networks you’re connected to, as these networks have hackers always on standby, waiting to pounce on users without prior warning. Wireless networks are a breeze to bypass for hackers.

To protect your business while using wireless networks, strengthen your router by strengthening your encryption settings. Another way to curb hacker entry is by turning off the broadcasting function to make your network invisible. What hackers can see, they can’t hack. Check out this wireless network assessment guide for further support in ensuring your network works best for your company’s needs.

3. Dispose of data properly

Data, like every other thing, has a life cycle. When data has been interpreted and used for its intended purpose, it needs to be disposed of appropriately to reduce the risk of a security breach. The key to ensuring that all confidential company data does not fall into the wrong hands is that a business owner and your team must ensure that all the contents on retired and reused devices or storage media will be removed properly. In industries like healthcare where sensitive patient information is involved, using resources such as a Data Security and Protection Toolkit can help healthcare organizations establish robust protocols. This helps by ensuring compliance and minimizing risks.

Ensure that your IT disposal partner uses the right tools to make all deleted data unrecoverable.

4. Use the cloud

Cloud service providers are a great resort for businesses that don’t have enough expertise or time to stay on top of all security-related issues. Cloud service providers store data, implement security and maintain software patches. The cloud is a good approach for small organizations needing unique protection but can’t afford big organizations.

5. Educate employees

Last but not the least, every company cannot protect its data without the help of its employees. Ensure that all staff members understand your company’s security policy and procedures and can adequately heed every security-related practice without fail. This education can be done during onboarding sessions or within the work year as a refresher course.

---