Five Ways to Protect Your Data Security as a Small Business Owner

In today’s digital era, cyber attacks – such as malware, phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks – have become increasingly common. Because cybercriminals pose a real and ongoing threat to businesses worldwide, it’s crucial to prioritize your data security as a small business owner in 2023.  

A proactive approach to protecting your professional data can help you:  

• Maintain confidentiality: As a small business owner, you likely handle sensitive information (such as customer data and financial records) on a regular basis. Protecting this information from unauthorized access helps maintain the confidentiality of your business and its customers. 
• Protect your reputation: A data breach can damage your business’s credibility, cause you to lose customers and revenue, and even lead to legal action.  
• Remain compliant: Various data protection laws may be violated if you’re part of a data-breach, resulting in hefty fines and legal penalties. 
• Prevent financial loss: Most forms of cyber attacks can result in significant financial losses. Due to the potential costs of investigations, legal fees and compensation to affected customers, it’s likely your small business may not recover from such an event.  

To safeguard your small business from the threats detailed above, consider following these five tips for protecting your data security as a small business owner:  

1) Secure your Wi-Fi networks

Hackers often exploit weak Wi-Fi networks to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. However, taking simple steps – such as changing the default login credentials that come on your router – can strengthen your security significantly. After you create a network name and password that isn’t easily guessable, consider enabling WPA2 or WPA3 to encrypt the data that’s transmitted over your network. Next, disable guest network access, limit the number of devices that can connect to your network, and consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for extra protection.  

2) Invest in cybersecurity solutions for your computer 

As a small business owner, utilizing cybersecurity solutions such as firewalls and antivirus software can help protect your computer and information against threats. Firewalls monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic, while antivirus software detects, prevents, and removes malicious software from your computer system. Using both of these solutions simultaneously can maximize your security and ensure your private information remains private.  

3) Set your employees up for success  

Human error is a leading cause of security breaches, so training your employees on best practices for data security is essential. Schedule a training day to go over things like creating strong passwords and changing them regularly, avoiding phishing scams (particularly through email), and being cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, limit employee access to unnecessary files and software downloads to decrease your likelihood of a data breach.   

4) Regularly backup your data  

Backing up your professional data (preferably using more than one method) is a crucial aspect of cybersecurity for small business owners. While cloud-based backup services provide an efficient and secure way to store data online, physical backup solutions (like external hard drives) add an additional layer of protection in case of technical difficulties. However, backing up your files only works when you do it regularly, so establish a frequent schedule to ensure you capture important data on a consistent basis.  

5) Work with companies who can help

Protecting your business against cyber threats can seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Some examples of companies that can help protect your data include: 

• Cybersecurity companies: These companies specialize in protecting businesses from online threats such as hacking, malware and phishing attacks. They typically offer a range of services like vulnerability assessments and network security testing.  
• Managed service providers (MSPs): MSPs provide a range of IT services, including data security. They can help you manage your IT infrastructure, monitor your network for potential threats, and provide support and guidance on best practices for data security. 
• Secure SaaS providers (like SurePayroll): The right software can streamline your business process while also encrypting your sensitive data, backing up your info on a regular basis, and ensuring your data is protected 24/7. 

Protecting Your Data With SurePayroll 

SurePayroll has a dedicated security team that ensures your information is safe, secure and available for you when you need it. You can be confident that your data is well-protected through every interaction, transaction, and on every device.   

• Our data center is alarmed and monitored by on-site security 24/7, and equipped with redundant power, networking and additional systems to ensure availability. 
• All of your personal information is encrypted in our databases. 
• Your information is backed up constantly, so even system failures do not put your information at risk. Real-time data backups mean that your data is always backed up, even in the event of a system outage 
• Our web servers use the strongest available security: 128 bit SSL (256 bit on supported browsers). 
• We employ rigorous authentication methods to keep your sensitive data safe during phone and online interactions. Our network is protected by multiple layers of firewalls, as well as intrusion-detection hardware, antivirus software and other technical measures. 
• System security is continually monitored by SurePayroll and third-party auditors. 

To learn more about the information SurePayroll collects, how we use it and how we protect you, check out our Private Policy page.  

To learn how to get started with SurePayroll, call 877.954.7873 today.