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Most businesses these days use computers and networks to send and store vital information. Having the right security systems in place - anti-virus, firewalls and strong passwords - will help to secure that information.
Cyber threats
Your business uses and stores vital information on your customers, finances, partners and business processes. This makes you highly attractive to cyber criminals, who attempt to infiltrate company networks and websites for financial gain or identity theft.
For example, in May 2008, according to software security specialist Trend Micro, over half a million websites were infected with malicious code. Most were small business websites running older or unpatched web server and operating systems.
Business security relies on two elements: good security technologies and a good security policy, which helps your employees to keep security in mind at all times.
Some of the things your security policy could include are as follows:
- Using 'strong' passwords that include numbers and letters
- Not sharing passwords
- Only opening email attachments from reliable sources
- Using the web responsibly
- Operating a clean desk policy so important information is not left around
- Checking references for all contractors and outsiders
- Monitoring access to the network, including memory sticks and other plug-in devices
Security arsenal
These days, there seems to be an agreed minimum level of security that any business using the public network must have. The basic tools include:
- Antivirus software to catch viruses and Trojan horse programs (ones that appear to perform harmless functions but in fact do something else that could be harmful)
- Antispam software to catch spam that could contain malicious code or links to hacker websites
- Anti-phishing software to detect financial hacking techniques
- A PC and/or server-based firewall program that monitors your internet connections
- Encryption technology to protect email and other traffic and wireless networks
Minimising your risk
A range of software security packages is available, both from retail stores and to download from the web as freeware. Many all-in-one packages include anti-virus, anti-spam and anti-phishing and also have a firewall element. Here are 10 popular packages that include all of these:
- AVG Internet Security
- BitDefender Total Security
- CA Internet Security Suite
- CheckPoint ZoneAlarm Security Suite
- Kaspersky Internet Security
- McAfee Internet Security Suite
- Norton Internet Security
- Panda Internet Security
- Sophos Security Suite
- Trend Micro Internet Security
Whichever package you opt for, you can minimise the risks posed by unauthorised access to your network by maintaining your software properly. For example, make sure that your firewall settings are properly configured so it is as effective as possible, and put in place virus and content scanners for emails and attachments. It's also important to keep your software licences current and active, and ensure that your systems are updated regularly to counter the latest intrusion techniques, which change rapidly.
Virtual private networks
If your staff want to access the business network or applications from outside the office, a good way to protect network access is by using a virtual private network (VPN). This is a server application, or specialised VPN device that attaches to the network, and it allows you and your employees to access applications and information over the Internet, as though they were in the office. The VPN works by securing network access and encrypting all network traffic.
What about insurance?
Direct Line for Business insurance policies will cover you for loss of electronic information for 'insured perils' as stated on your policy documents, which would typically include events like fire or flood.
However, you will not be insured for any loss, damage or theft of data from a computer virus or hacking - this could be someone infiltrating your network externally, or internal staff. It is therefore essential that you have the best IT security measures in place to protect your company's information.
Related information:
IT & Ecommerce - how to get the most out of technology in your business.
Equipment breakdown cover - how to assess the risk of your business equipment breaking down and what is covered under our business insurance policies.
Dealing with business interruptions - how to plan for disruptions and what business insurance will provide cover for.
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