7 good tips for IT Security

Do you have control over your IT Security? In the modern knowledge society, we store a large part of the company’s sensitive data in computer systems. Data can be just what keeps your business competitive, which is why IT security is at least as important as inventory and employees. You should therefore pay as much attention to it as to the rest.

The number of hackers is increasing and they have become more cunning. In step with this, burglary, attacks, and network fraud are constantly increasing, which is why it is important that you have control over how your company uses IT.

Here are 7 tips for IT Security

1. Your IT systems should always be up to date

Hackers and other criminals know exactly how to exploit it if your company’s operating systems are vulnerable. Therefore, always make sure that both your operating systems and other programs are regularly updated, as it minimizes vulnerability. In most programs, it is possible to turn on an automatic update.

In addition to the regular update, you should make sure that you only install programs that your company needs so that no unnecessary updates have to be made. Therefore, make a regular review of the installed programs to check if there are any you no longer need.

In addition, you should never use software that is no longer supported by the vendor.

2. Installation of security package is a necessity

All corporate PCs should have a security package installed that includes the following:

• A firewall
• An antivirus program
• A spam filter
• A phishing filter

Then regularly update the security package for optimal protection — preferably daily and automatically. For larger companies with many PCs, a central solution is the best solution. In addition, a total scan of the hard disk should be performed on an ongoing basis.

3. The security level of your browser must be set

Every time files, programs, and information are transferred to the computer, it is a good idea to set the browser to ask for permission. That way, nothing unwanted is installed. Each PC’s administrator rights should be assigned to the individual user of the PC.

4. Enable encryption on your company’s wireless network

Hackers like to exploit if companies’ networks are open, to avoid being suspected of themselves. So if you do not want anyone but you and your employees to have access to your network — and your resources for that matter, encryption can prevent this. WPA2 encryption is recommended for this. You best secure the network by giving it an anonymous name and an encryption key that is difficult to see through.

5. Good and secure passwords are not without significance

Passwords also help protect your company’s network, resources, and confidential information. Therefore, always make sure to use a long password, preferably over 8 digits. You get the most security when passwords are a combination of both uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.

The best passwords are those that consist of a sequence of random letters and numbers that can be remembered without you writing them down. The most transparent passwords are the ones you can look up in a dictionary.

To increase security a little extra, you should change your passwords and passwords regularly.

6. Demonstrate safe behavior on the Internet

You and your employees should always be critical when doing the following:

• Visiting websites
• Installs programs
• Receives emails

In addition, you must always pay extra attention to the following:

• Chat
• Instant messaging
• Attachments and links
• Social network
• Fake websites

Never open emails about lottery winnings or other offers that seem too good to be true. Unfortunately, the spam filter does not catch all unwanted emails, so if in doubt, delete them.

7. Always make a backup copy of the company’s most important data

Some information can be crucial to a company’s finances, credibility, and improved survival if it is leaked or lost. It can be information such as personnel information, patents, or the financial system. Therefore, always make sure to take a backup and always check that this works.