Mastering the ins and outs of cybersecurity for your Oklahoma business can be a bit like learning a foreign language—it can feel intimidating and overwhelming. But just as mastering a new language takes the right strategies, so does building up your small business’ cybersecurity in Oklahoma. Just like learning any difficult skill, it’s important to start with the basics and build from there. (And, to let you in on a secret—it doesn’t have to be that complicated!) To help you get started on your cybersecurity journey, here are five simple tools that will help you ensure your digital security:

1. MFA

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a must in today’s digital world. MFA helps protect your business from hackers that may try to access accounts with stolen credentials. MFA requires users to provide multiple elements of proof, such as personal information, a PIN, or a biometric feature like fingerprint scanning—before gaining access to company information. About 80-90% of automated cyberattacks are prevented by the implementation of MFA.

2. Anti-Virus

Anti-virus software provides a critical layer of defense against malware, spyware, ransomware, and other cyber threats that cause significant damage to your business operations. While anti-virus software can be a great first line of defense, it is insufficient on its own and should be accompanied by other forms of cybersecurity. A good rule of thumb when using anti-virus software is to make sure that it is kept up-to-date. Check that the most recent virus definitions are installed and installed frequently—new viruses and malware are released regularly to harm businesses like yours.

3. Regular Backups

Regular backups are necessary to protect your business from data loss due to cyber threats. Even with the best cybersecurity in Oklahoma in place, there is no guarantee that your data won’t be compromised in some way. Backups can be compared to a seatbelt in many ways. Just like a seatbelt, backups provide an extra layer of protection against the unexpected; they help guard against potentially devastating losses. Regular backups give users the peace of mind that comes with knowing their data is safe and sound should something unexpected happen. When it comes to cybersecurity in Oklahoma, backups are an invaluable tool.

4. Software Updates

Regularly updating software helps protect against the latest threats and gives your business the best protection available. When new security updates become available, be sure to install them right away—these updates often contain patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities and provide additional layers of security. Keeping up with regular software updates might feel overwhelming. Hire a managed service provider to help you stay up-to-date, while maintaining the security of your business.

5. Security Awareness Training

No matter how many tools and technologies you implement, cybersecurity is only as strong as the people using it. If you can train your employees to think cyber-smart, you will have a business prepared to identify and respond to cyber threats.

For Better Cybersecurity in Oklahoma, Partner With iTology

Between keeping customers happy, improving your employee productivity, and all the other things on your ever-growing to-do list, learning the language of cybersecurity may be the last thing on your mind. If you’re looking for a better way to keep your data safe, trust iTology to do it for you.  Schedule a free assessment to find out how iTology can help you save money and protect your data from cyber threats.