Building a startup into a successful corporation is no joke. Given that about 50 percent of startups fail within 5 years, it’s fair to say the odds are stacked against you.
You’d think that the internet is the one safe space that will help accelerate the growth of your startup, but nothing could be further from the truth. 43 percent of cyberattacks target startups like yours.
The good news?
You can protect your business from online attacks. Just be keen to avoid these online security mistakes.
1. Using Weak Passwords
A whopping 83 percent of Americans, including enterprise users, are using weak passwords to log in to their devices and online systems.
This might sound unbelievable, especially considering that a strong password is the first line of defense against online hackers. But why do people keep doing it?
We know why.
No one wants to type in a long, complex password every time they want to log in to a website or other business system. Unfortunately, using weak passwords doesn’t do your business any favors. Hackers can breach your weak passwords with ease and gain access to your data.
Your passwords should be no less than 8 characters, and they should contain a mix of alphanumeric characters, as well as special characters.
2. Keeping Your Business WiFi Open
Maybe you want your clients and guest to have easy access to your network, so you resolve to leave your WiFi unsecured. Sure, some visitors (and neighbors) will appreciate your generosity, but it’s the bad guys who will thank you more!
An open network just makes it so easy for hackers to attack your business. They can tap into the network and capture all the information you send over it or see everything you’re doing.
Secure your WiFi networks and ensure the password is strong. If your guests really want to use your WiFi when they visit, they won’t have a problem entering your long password. In fact, most people nowadays are hesitant to use open or public networks.
3. Not Using HTTPS Encryption on Your Website
How secure is your business website?
There are several security features you should installing on your site, but HTTPS encryption is the most important. This enables secure communication over a network, meaning you won’t worry about someone stealing any data or information that’s sent through your website.
If your site’s still using HTTP, switching to HTTPS is as simple as purchasing a security certificate from your hosting provider.
4. Purchasing Software and Apps from Unvetted Vendors
In the course of doing business, you’ll need to purchase various computer software and applications.
If you run a physician’s practice, for example, you’ll purchase an information management software. Do you put security as a top priority in your mind when buying your software?
Putting security first means buying from reputable vendors who have a reputation for developing secure products. But if you jump on any software without doing sufficient research, you could end up exposing your business to various vulnerabilities.
Avoid These Online Security Mistakes
Digitizing your business is the right thing to do.
However, if you don’t put online security first, you’ll be courting disaster. Hackers are roaming free, looking for the next business to take down. If you don’t want yours to be the next one, avoid these online security mistakes.
Keep reading our blog for more business technology tips and hacks. Visit the Tech section right now to learn more about online security mistakes to avoid making with your business.
