Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are facing a dual threat in terms of data security. Firstly, cybercrime is an ever-growing threat to businesses of all kinds. Around 612,000 or 43% of businesses reported experiencing a cyber security breach or attack in the last 12 months.
The costs can be considerable, but businesses are also under a legal obligation to protect customer data and other sensitive information. Failing to do so could see them face penalties under UK GDPR rules. It’s therefore vital to have effective data security measures for small businesses in place. The most effective approach is a multi-layered one combining the right technological solutions and people-focused policies.
Foundational Practices: Your First Line of Defence
SMEs often have limited resources, so they should focus on low-cost, high-impact security fundamentals.
Four methods of protecting data include…
Back Up Your Data Regularly and Securely
Backing up your data is essential in case of a breach or system failure. Consider the 3-2-1 rule, which involves 3 copies of your data, stored on 2 different types of media, with 1 of those copies kept offsite. This could include a copy stored on the cloud or offline on physical storage media, with appropriate physical security measures in place.
Enforce Strong Password Policies and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Despite increased awareness, passwords still represent a weak point for many organisations. Implement a policy that requires minimum complexity and original passwords, and combine with multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all systems and pass points.
Keep All Software and Devices Up to Date
There’s little point in installing security software and securing devices if the measures are not kept up to date. The cyber threat sphere is constantly evolving, and security measures need to be constantly updated. Effective patch management can help to tackle potential vulnerabilities before they become an issue.
Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Wi-Fi is incredibly convenient, but it can present an opportunity for cybercriminals. Using a strong security protocol such as WPA3 with a separate network for guests is generally considered best practice.
Technical Safeguards for Proactive Protection
Use core technologies to build a robust perimeter around your data and systems.
Deploy Antivirus, Anti-Malware, and a Firewall
Anti-malware software, including antivirus and effective firewalls,is a must. It is also important to activate and configure your defences correctly and to keep them updated moving forward.
Encrypt Sensitive Data
Encryption makes data unreadable to those without the correct key, making it one of the most valuable yet overlooked security measures for businesses. It can protect your sensitive data in cases of a remote breach, but also in cases such as physical theft or loss of laptops and other devices.
Apply the Principle of Least Privilege
Much like providing knowledge on a ‘need to know’ basis, the principle of least privilege offers protection by limiting access to files, data, and systems to those who actually need it.
Consider a Business VPN for Remote Workers
Remote and hybrid working is now the norm for many businesses, but it can pose additional risks. A business VPN can give remote workers a secure, encrypted connection to your network, protecting sensitive data from cyber threats.
If you need help implementing effective cyber security solutions, it may make sense to partner with an expert such as Clipeum.
People, Policy, and UK GDPR Compliance
The human element is an important part of cyber security for small businesses in the UK. It’s also important for SMEs to comply with GDPR requirements.
Provide Mandatory Cyber Security Training
Human error is a major cause of breaches. Cyber security training should encourage good cyber hygiene practices, providing skills and knowledge to enable secure browsing and minimise the risks of common attack types such as phishing.
Establish a Clear Data Security Policy
Businesses of all sizes should establish and enforce a clear data security policy, which documents procedures and elements such as ‘bring your own device’ (BYOD) policies. This could take the form of a cyber security policy for a small business, a PDF, or another type of document.
Conduct a Regular Risk Assessment and Audit
A data security audit is an important part of data security, allowing you to assess factors including an inventory of your data, current security measures, and who has access to what. Doing this regularly ensures that your information is up to date.
Proper Data Disposal and Retention
Data that you no longer need or are required to keep should be securely wiped. UK GDPR states that you should not keep personal data for longer than you need to, though what this means in practice can vary depending on the situation.
Key Takeaway: Your Small Business Cyber Security Checklist
- Back up data regularly and routinely.
- Enforce appropriate passwords.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere.
- Keep software, hardware, and networks up to date.
- Secure Wi-Fi and consider VPNs for remote workers.
- Keep access to the minimum needed for each role.
- Use suitable anti-malware.
- Consider encrypting sensitive data.
- Provide training and a clear data protection policy.
- Conduct regular risk assessments and audits.
- Adhere to regulatory requirements such as UK GDPR.
Building a Culture of Security
The best cyber security for small businesses should always incorporate how to protect customer data privacy. It’s important to adopt a holistic approach for protecting reputation, maintaining customer trust, and ensuring business continuity.
If you want to ensure that your data protection policies and solutions are secure and effective, contact Clipeum today to find out how we can help.
FAQs
What are the five pillars of data security?
These are generally considered to be confidentiality, non-repudiation, authenticity, availability, and integrity.
How do small businesses comply with GDPR?
UK GDPR is a lengthy set of regulations. However, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has a handy guide to the main data protection principles.