Cybersecurity for businesses is becoming increasingly important in the global economy. It’s not just about securing a company’s general information, regardless of its size, but also about protecting the data of customers and employees.
As a digital company, we understand that technology is an essential element for any organization. We also recognize that it must be used correctly to mitigate risks in information management.
At Kuorum, cybersecurity is at the core of everything we do. In this post, we summarize essential cybersecurity measures that businesses should adopt to prevent cyberattacks and foster a company-wide culture of cybersecurity.
Analyze your company’s data to determine its cybersecurity needs
The first step in implementing cybersecurity in your business is to analyze all company data. This allows you to classify it based on sensitivity and the potential risk of loss or theft. Additionally, understanding relevant regulations will help you determine how to manage and protect different types of data.
For example, you should establish which data is confidential, which is for internal use only, and which can be made public.
This analysis will enable you to implement the right cybersecurity measures for your business.
Define your company's Cybersecurity Policy
Once you have identified which data needs protection and its sensitivity, it’s time to create a Cybersecurity Policy. This protocol should include key aspects such as:
- Establishing access controls for information and external storage systems. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access specific data and track who removes information from company premises.
- Implementing a system for employees to create, manage, and update passwords.
- Defining which applications can or cannot be downloaded on company devices.
- Establishing confidentiality agreements and clarifying when they are necessary.
Having a solid Cybersecurity Policy provides businesses with strong preventive measures and safeguards against accidental data loss. For instance, it ensures that sensitive information is properly handled before disposing of a computer containing critical data.
When creating this policy, consider the financial cost, time investment, and human resources required, as well as alternative options. Additionally, inform employees that cybersecurity measures also apply to remote work tools and devices.
Allocate a budget for business cybersecurity
Beyond protecting information and a company’s reputation, cyberattacks can also pose financial risks. According to cybersecurity studies, the average cost of a cyberattack can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
That’s why allocating an annual budget for business cybersecurity should be viewed as an investment rather than an expense.
This can involve simple actions such as purchasing extra storage space for backups, securing cloud storage for sensitive data, and regularly updating software and applications, especially after periods of employee absence, like vacations.
It’s not just about having antivirus software - it’s also essential to keep it updated. Remember, there are free cybersecurity tools available.
When purchasing third-party software, always check that it has recognized security certifications. At Kuorum, for example, we comply with the ISO27001 Information Security standard, audited annually by IQNET.
Don’t overlook physical cybersecurity measures
Physical cybersecurity measures include maintaining company facilities and protecting information stored in non-digital formats. Examples include properly maintaining the server room to prevent fire hazards, implementing access control systems for offices, securing doors and cabinets containing sensitive materials, and storing backup copies in a fireproof safe.
Train your team on data protection
Employee training is crucial. In addition to understanding the company’s Cybersecurity Policy, employees should be able to recognize phishing emails and correctly handle any external software that contains company data. This is the only way to ensure data security is not compromised.
At Kuorum, for example, whenever our clients set up their online voting platform, we provide technical assistance to help them securely manage their information.
And of course, staying up to date on cybersecurity is essential. This allows you to inform all departments about emerging scams and cyber threats.
As you can see, cybersecurity isn’t just the responsibility of management - it’s a collective effort that involves every employee handling company data. And data security isn’t just about protecting IT systems and servers; it also includes business information, customer data, employee records, confidential materials, equipment, and facilities.
Build a strong information security culture within your company and protect both your business and the people who keep it running.
