A computer meltdown is one of the most damaging things that can happen to your enterprise. So, small business computer security is critical to the on-going operation and success of your business. Therefore, you, as a business owner, need to at least cover the basics. Here are some small business computer security tips from the The Federal Bureau of Investigation. https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/cyber
Keep Your Firewall Turned On:
A firewall helps protect your computer from hackers. They might try to gain access to your system to crash it, delete information, or even steal passwords or other sensitive information. Software firewalls are widely recommended for single computers. Some operating systems already contain the software pre-loaded. The software is prepackaged on some operating systems. Also, you can purchase it for individual computers. Similarly, hardware routers typically provide firewall protection for multiple networked computers.
Install or Update Your Antivirus Software:
Antivirus software is designed to prevent malicious software programs from embedding on your computer. If it detects malicious code, like a virus or a worm, it works to disarm or remove it. Viruses can infect computers without users’ knowledge. Most types of antivirus software can be set up to update automatically.
Install or Update Your Antispyware Technology:
Spyware is just what it sounds like. It surreptitiously installs on your computer to let others peer into your activities. Some spyware collects information about you without your consent. In adddition, some produces unwanted pop-up ads on your web browser. Some operating systems offer free spyware protection. Also, you can buy inexpensive software on the Internet. Or you can buy it at your local computer store. Be wary of ads on the Internet offering downloadable antispyware. Because these products may be fake and may actually contain spyware or other malicious code. It’s like buying groceries; shop where you trust.
Keep Your Operating System Up to Date:
Your computer operating system updates periodically to fix security holes and keep current. So, be sure to install the updates to ensure your computer has the latest protection.
Be Careful What You Download:
The best anti-virus software can be defeated if you are careless downloading e-mail attachments. So, you never open an e-mail attachment from someone you don’t know. Further, be careful with forwarded attachments from people you do know. Because, they may have unwittingly advanced malicious code.
Turn Off Your Computer:
With the growth of high-speed Internet connections, many opt to leave their computers on and ready for action. However, the downside is that being “always on” renders computers more susceptible. So turn off your computer when not in use. That will effectively sever an attacker’s connection.
In conclusion, those are some basics for small business computer security. So, thank you for checking in and best wishes for your continued success.