Tips for minimizing network and data security threats

Small businesses these days must contend with the same potent Internet security threats as most other larger firms do. The threats have become more pronounced in recent years. On the other hand, they have become even more discreet.

If you are running a smaller business and budget is tight, you can develop your own security policy, but that can expose your business to some risks. Of course, as your business starts growing in size, you are better off leaving security of network and data in the hands of experts.

It involves considerable effort and discipline when it comes to changing passwords on a regular basis, performing periodic backups, and checking for software updates. The inputs and intervention of independent security organizations can help minimize the risk.

There are how-to guides on offer that can provide you with clues. For instance, the Internet Security Alliance has its ‘Guide to Cyber Security’ specifically aimed at small businesses. It is available to registered users as a free download. You can check some of its material in the SysAdmin, Audit, Network, Security (SANS) Institute's ‘Network Security & the SMB’ essay.

The checklists with instructions probably worth repeating are as follows:

• Protect user accounts with peculiar and uncommon passwords
• Change the passwords on a regular basis.
• Scrutinize carefully all e-mail attachments and other links.
• Install and update antivirus antispyware software on a regular basis.
• Keep all your operating system as well as applications, current and patched.
• Set up and make use of a firewall.