Due to the increased integration of aspects of our lives into the online realm, cyber safety is just as crucial as physical safety, especially in a business setting. While it’s true anyone can be vulnerable to cyber-crimes studies indicate that female business owners are susceptible to cyber crimes in the workplace. Below are eight cyber safety tips every female business owner should know and practice to reduce these risks.
Lock Down Your Privacy and Location Settings
Social platforms make it too easy to have public profiles by default. Take control by customizing who can see your content, location, friends list, and contact information. On Facebook, Instagram, and similar sites, opt for more private settings that only share with “friends” rather than “public”. Also, avoid live streaming or posting from sensitive locations in real time to prevent revealing where you are. Your location should never be for public viewing. Hackers can use your personal social media accounts to gain valuable information and access to your company.
Use Strong and Unique Passwords
Weak passwords are the biggest risk to your business accounts. Avoid using the same passwords across multiple platforms, and never reuse old ones. Opt for long passphrases combining letters, numbers, and symbols that would be tough to guess and use a password manager to help generate and store unique credentials safely.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
This extra layer of cybersecurity confirms your identity with a code sent to your computer and your password when logging into sensitive accounts. It is a major barrier to hackers even if they steal your password. Important business accounts such as email, social media, and online banking should all have 2FA enabled if the option exists.
Think Before You Click
Phishing scams use clever tricks to steal company info or install malware. Hover over links before clicking to check they lead to the expected domain. It’s better to verify directly with the company if you need clarification. Ensure you continuously have updated antivirus software as another line of defense.
Don’t Keep Passwords on Your Desk
As a female business owner, it can be hard to keep up with everything you need to, and an easy way to remember your passwords might seem to keep them on a sticky note on your desk or even attached to your computer. However, anyone can see this information and could illegally use it or pass it on to hackers. If you want to write your passwords down, don’t make it obvious what the information is and keep it in a safe place, preferably locked away.
Monitor Your Online Reputation
You’d be surprised how much personal information data brokers already have on individuals. Regularly search your name, email, and phone number online to check for digital footprints, such as public profiles, old photos, or personal posts you forgot about. If possible results seem suspicious or outdated, you can remove them through privacy tools. Cyber criminals can use your personal information to illegally gain information about your business so it’s important to stay vigilant about monitoring your online reputation.
Secure Your Device
Use a pin, password, or biometric lock to prevent unauthorized access to your corporate phone, laptop, or tablet. Enable remote wipe to delete data remotely if needed. Similarly, install antivirus software and keep systems patched and updated to plug security vulnerabilities attackers exploit. Be mindful of public WI-FI networks as well as avoid logging into accounts while on an unsecured connection.
Report Issues to the Proper Authorities
If you suspect cybercrimes regarding your corporate or personal accounts, do not engage further; instead, tell someone you trust. Save evidence through screenshots in case further action needs to be taken. Reach out to law enforcement, your internet service provider, or the platform’s security team to address the incident appropriately without putting yourself at additional risk.
