Six Tips Organizations Can Take to Improve Cybersecurity

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. During this annual event, government and industry leaders come together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity.

It's crucial for businesses to stay cyber-secure in order to safeguard company data, protect customers' personal information, and ensure employee privacy. We outlined six ways businesses can foster organizational cybersecurity:

 

1. Establish policies to promote cybersecurity.

This includes a bring your own device policy, email and internet communication policy, acceptable use policy, remote work policy, and incident response policy.

2. Educate your employees.

Utilize a training program to make employees aware of cybersecurity threats and how to avoid them.

3. Implement smart software.

Install strong spam filters, firewalls, and antivirus and malware programs on all company devices. In addition, maintain network security by using a virtual private network.

4. Enforce access controls.

Only allow trusted and qualified individuals access to sensitive data. Further, ensure all employees use strong passwords and update them on a routine basis.

5. Bolster business continuity.

Be sure to back up data frequently. Consider storing copies of critical data in additional secure locations, such as the cloud.

6. Have a plan.

Establish a cyber incident response plan to minimize potential losses in the event of a cyber attack. Test this plan regularly.

 

If you have questions related to your company's cybersecurity insurance coverage, contact your North Risk Partners advisor. Don't have an advisor? No problem. We’ll help you find one.