October isn’t just about pumpkin-spiced lattes and cozy sweaters – it’s also Cybersecurity Awareness Month. And here at Murph Consulting, the Help Desk with a Heart, we believe that the backbone of our economy – small businesses – should take a moment to focus on this crucial topic.  

Why Does Cybersecurity Matter to Small Businesses?

Often, there’s a misconception that cybercriminals only target the big fish: large corporations, banks, and governmental organizations. However, according to a recent Accenture Cybercrime study, an alarming 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses. Why? Simply put, small businesses often have fewer security defenses, making them a soft target.

Imagine spending years building your dream, your passion, and your livelihood, only for it to be compromised or even ruined in moments because of a cybersecurity oversight. It’s not just about data; it’s about your reputation, your clients’ trust, and the heart of your business.  

Steps to Protect Your Business

1. Educate & Train Your Team 

Often, the weakest link in cybersecurity isn’t the technology but the people. Regularly update your team about the latest phishing scams and teach them the basics of strong password creation.  

2. Regular Backups

Ensure all your business data is backed up regularly. Use both cloud-based backups and physical backups for redundancy.  

3. Update & Patch 

Outdated software can leave your systems vulnerable. Make sure you update your software routinely and review any legacy or unneeded software that can be removed.  

4. Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware 

Anti-virus and anti-malware should always be running automatically in the background. Make sure this feature is enabled. It’s also good practice to run a full system scan at least once a week.  

5. Firewalls 

Regular monitoring, proactive patch management, and staying informed about the latest security threats are key practices for maintaining an effective and up-to-date firewall. Remember, they’re the gatekeepers to your data.  

6. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

This is a simple yet effective method of adding an extra layer of protection. Require MFA for all accounts, especially those with sensitive information.  

7. Regular Security Assessments 

Periodically evaluate your business’s IT environment for vulnerabilities. Don’t know how? Reach out to us at Murph Consulting. We’re the help desk with not just a heart but a passion for protecting yours.  

8. Restricted Access 

Not everyone on your team needs access to everything. Limit access to sensitive data only to those who genuinely need it.  

9. Stay Informed 

Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving. Subscribe to cybersecurity news platforms or partner with organizations (like us!) to keep a pulse on the latest developments.  

While no system can be 100% secure, taking these steps can significantly reduce your risk and ensure that the heart of your business – its data, its reputation, and its trust – is safeguarded.  

Remember, at Murph Consulting, we don’t just treat you as another client. We value the heart of your business, and we’re here to help.

Reach out to Murph Consulting if you have any questions or need assistance in setting up your cybersecurity protocols.