Computer Security for Small Business

Small Business Computer Security Threats and Protection

As a small business owner, you may wear many hats. Besides handling the marketing and sales departments, you could also be in charge of the finances and human resources. Moreover, since we're lucky enough to live in a modern digital era, you'll need to worry about your IT infrastructure.

Protecting your computers, servers, and networks is crucial, even if you're running a small business. By implementing the proper measures, you'll safeguard sensitive data, keep business operations up and running, and build customer trust.

In this article, we'll discuss potential threats, the nitty-gritty of using small business security software and implementing other protective measures for your computers, and expand on a few popular products that aid small businesses. If you're serious about running your company, this is one piece you won't want to ignore.

Threats Are Everywhere

Never forget that your computer setup is consistently vulnerable. To implement the smartest cybersecurity measures, you must understand the threats that you stand to face.

• Phishing Attacks – Small businesses often encounter deceptive emails and websites that trick employees into exposing sensitive information like usernames and passwords.
• Ransomware – As a small business, you may not have robust backup systems. That fact makes you a target for ransomware, a type of malware that encrypts files, blocking them from access until you fork up a ransom.
• Malware – Viruses, trojans, and spyware may infect your computers and networks. When that happens, data integrity and system functionality are at risk.
• Insider Threats – Dangers don't just lurk from external sources. Your employees hold access to your company's systems, and a bad egg may steal data, expose it unintentionally, or be negligent.
• Password-Related Threats – Attackers gain unauthorized access to systems by running brute force, credential stuffing, and password spraying attacks. Weak passwords, such as those containing birthdates and names, are at higher risk.
• Social Engineering – This is a form of manipulation in which attackers exploit human psychology to gain access to confidential information, systems, or physical locations. Instead of relying on technical vulnerabilities, social engineering relies on deceiving individuals into divulging sensitive information or performing actions that may compromise security.
• Wi-Fi Attacks – Attackers exploit unsecured Wi-Fi networks to access a business's network. You may be at higher risk if your employees work remotely or the company has a customer-facing Wi-Fi access point.
• Personal Device Risks – An employee's personal phone or laptop introduces threats because they may not have the proper security measures in place.
• Unpatched Software and Systems – Small businesses that don't implement robust patching practices leave their systems vulnerable to the latest security threats.
• Lack of Data Encryption – Failure to encrypt sensitive data, both in transit and at rest, can expose it to interception or theft. This is particularly important for data transmitted over networks and stored on mobile devices.
• Poorly Configured Firewalls and Security Settings – Inadequate firewall configurations and lax security settings can leave networks open to unauthorized access and compromise.

These are but a few risks your small business faces. To address these threats and more, small businesses should prioritize cybersecurity measures. Regular risk assessments and a proactive approach can go a long way in protecting your company.

Using Security Software to Protect Small Business

A small company should still prioritize investing in security software, even if it's on a tight budget. Cybersecurity is a critical aspect of modern business operations, and the cost of a security breach can far outweigh the initial investment in protective measures.

Investing in security software is simply the most pragmatic approach, as it minimizes the risk of financial losses due to data breaches or ransomware attacks. As a small business owner, you must understand the high costs of dealing with the aftermath of a security breach. Instead of forking up legal fees, customer compensation, and system recovery costs, a company should make an initial investment in security software. The move also increases trust because it shows a commitment to protecting customer information.

While budget constraints may limit the resources available for cybersecurity, there are often affordable security solutions tailored for small businesses. Additionally, many security software providers offer scalable solutions, allowing companies to start with essential protections and gradually expand as their budget allows.

Security software plays a crucial role in helping small businesses protect themselves against various cyber threats. Here are ways in which security software contributes to the security of a small business:

• Malware Protection – Security software, including antivirus and anti-malware solutions, helps detect and remove malicious software such as viruses, trojans, and spyware from computers and networks. These could compromise sensitive data, disrupt operations, or lead to financial losses – all risks your small business must avoid.
• Real-Time Threat Detection – Many security solutions provide real-time monitoring and detection of threats. This proactive approach allows businesses to identify and respond to security incidents promptly, thereby minimizing the impact of potential security incidents and reducing the risk of data breaches.
• Firewall Protection – Security software often includes firewall features that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewalls help prevent unauthorized access, protect against network-based attacks, and block malicious activities that might exploit system vulnerabilities.
• Email Security – Security software can include email security features to scan email attachments and links for potential threats, including phishing attempts and malware-laden attachments.
• Web Protection – Some security solutions offer web protection features, blocking access to malicious websites and preventing users from inadvertently visiting sites that could compromise security. These sites may distribute malware or request confidential information under false pretenses.
• Behavioral Analysis – Advanced security software may use behavioral analysis to identify suspicious activities or patterns of behavior that could indicate a potential threat.
• Automatic Updates – Security software regularly updates its virus definitions and databases to stay current with the latest threats. This ensures that the software is capable of detecting and mitigating new and emerging threats.
• Data Encryption – Certain security solutions provide encryption features to protect sensitive data both in transit and at rest. This is especially important for securing data stored on devices or transmitted over networks.
• Device Control – Security software may offer device control features that allow businesses to manage and control the use of external devices such as USB drives, reducing the risk of malware transmission.
• Endpoint Security – Endpoint security solutions help secure individual devices (endpoints) such as computers, laptops, and mobile devices. This includes antivirus protection, firewall features, and other security measures.
• Centralized Management – Many security solutions provide centralized management consoles, allowing businesses to monitor and manage security settings across multiple devices and systems from a single interface. This is especially important for smaller companies that operate with one-person IT departments.
• Regular Scans and Audits – Security software can be scheduled to perform regular scans and audits of systems to identify vulnerabilities and potential security risks. This feature is crucial for small business owners doubling as the IT department as they do not have the bandwidth for matters outside daily operations.
• Incident Response – In the event of a security incident, security software can assist in the identification of the threat, isolation of affected systems, and, in some cases, automated or guided incident response. Therefore, the business will be able to return to normal operations quicker.
• User Authentication and Access Control – Security software helps enforce strong authentication measures and access controls, limiting access to sensitive data and systems based on user roles. This minimizes insider threats dramatically.
• Compliance Management – For businesses subject to industry regulations and compliance requirements, security software can assist in ensuring that the necessary security measures are in place to meet these standards. As such, the small business avoids unwanted legal consequences and builds trust with its customers with increased data protection.

Implementing and regularly updating security software is a fundamental part of a small business's cybersecurity strategy. However, it's important to note that security software is just one component of a comprehensive cybersecurity approach.

Other Security Measures

Do your efforts stop at installing robust security software? Certainly not. To increase protection, your small business would benefit immensely from the following measures.

• Create a Security Policy – Prepare a guide to ensure employees are aware of the acceptable use of IT resources, password rules, and procedures to handle data and sensitive information.
• Educate Employees – Train your staff so they understand security best practices, including why they should use strong passwords, what phishing attacks look like, and the risks of clicking on suspicious links and downloading unknown files.
• Prepare an Incident Response Plan – What happens in the event of a security incident? Develop a plan so employees know what actions to take. Test and update it regularly to ensure preparedness.
• Limit Physical Access – Your servers and network equipment should stay in a secure location, with access restricted to trustworthy parties.
• Restrict Access Permissions – Your HR department doesn't need to access your financial reports. Limit access to sensitive data according to job roles and review permissions regularly.
• Revoke Access for Departing Employees – The offboarding process for staff should include returning company-owned devices and revoking access to internal systems.
• Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – A unique password doesn't cut it. Increase security on critical systems and accounts with a one-time password (OTP), fingerprint, or facial recognition.
• Assess Your Risk – What are the potential threats to your systems and data? Find out with a risk assessment to evaluate the data that flows through your company and its value.
• Conduct Security Audits – Consider getting an external expert to regularly run security checks to identify and address vulnerabilities. They should also perform penetration tests.
• Assess Third-Party Vendors and Service Providers – Are your partners implementing the appropriate security measures? Evaluate their security practices and review contracts to ensure alignment.]
• Update Software – Your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications will have updates and patches from time to time. Always pay attention to these. It's a good idea to install updates automatically if feasible.
• Secure Wi-Fi Networks – All Wi-Fi networks should have WPA3 encryption and be accessible only with strong, unique passwords.
• Backup Data – Perform regular data backups and store files securely. Running everything on a schedule ensures you won't be left in a lurch if you need a data restore. Backups are a big deal for small businesses when it's about the protection against ransomware attacks.
• Encrypt Sensitive Data – Protect your data, whether at rest or in transit, by encrypting it.
• Secure Mobile Devices – Utilize mobile device management solutions and enforce security policies to manage the use of smartphones and tablets.
• Comply With the Latest Security Regulations – Your security practices must align with relevant compliance requirements. Always keep abreast with data protection laws and industry regulations.
• Get Insurance – Cybersecurity insurance doesn't just protect larger corporations. A small business will be able to mitigate financial risks that occur from data breaches and ransomware attacks.
• Stay Informed – As new threats emerge daily, you must be aware of the latest cybersecurity risks and best practices. Consider participating in industry forums and training sessions and subscribing to security newsletters.

Reliable Security Tools for Your Small Business

Perform a Google search on security software, and you'll notice that the market is saturated with companies providing antivirus solutions. Picking one that suits your business needs might be a challenge. We've compiled the best tools from reputable providers in the market. Find out all the essential details, including features and prices, from this section.

Avast Small Business Security Software

Avast prides itself in protecting businesses, small and large, with its largest threat detection network.

Avast Small Office Protection

Avast offers this package for small and home offices. Companies on a budget with up to 10 devices seeking real-time protection against ransomware and cyberattacks can derive it from this subscription. For only $139.99 a year (or $14.00 per device annually), a small business can enjoy device and data protection and phishing and password security.

Essential Business Security

To gain protection for more devices, Essential Business Security will give you the basics. This subscription offers the following features:

• Online management platform to set up device protection even when you're on the go
• Protection against viruses and malware for your PCs, Macs, and Windows servers
• Ransomware protection to prevent device and file lockdowns
• Personal, business, and customer data protection against theft
• IT support 24/5 via email, chat, and phone
• Identity protection to safeguard online identities with password and webcam security

This package has several pricing tiers according to the number of devices you wish to protect. The prices listed are per device per year, starting at $31.37 for less than five devices. Do note that rates drop with longer subscriptions.

Premium Business Security

This subscription is a step up from the necessities. Enjoy better coverage from online and offline threats, thanks to AI and USB protection shields. With this package, you get everything included in Essential Business Security plus the following:

• Unlimited VPN built in to encrypt data and secure internet connections
• USB protection to prevent staff from using unauthorized removable storage devices as a means to avoid data theft, data loss, and malware attacks

For Premium Business Security, prices also differ by the number of devices, starting from $39.85 per device for less than five.

Ultimate Business Security

The final small business software from Avast contains everything you need for complete peace of mind. In addition to the features included in Essential and Premium Business Security, you'll also have a patch management tool. It will find vulnerabilities in your software and third-party applications so they're not susceptible to cyberattacks.

Ultimate Business Security costs $48.33 per device (for coverage purchases for less than five devices). For an extra cost, you'll reap time savings from automatic patching, keeping your operating systems and third-party applications away from targeted attacks.

AVG Small Business Security Software

AVG antivirus has been popular among users for its user-friendly interface and effectiveness in detecting and removing malware. It is available in both free and paid versions, which cater to a wide swath of users. For small business operators, AVG offers two products.

AVG AntiVirus Business Edition

This product is an online antivirus software. Like all AVG offerings, it is easy to install and offers round-the-clock protection. Here's a list of its features:

• 24-hour support every weekday by phone and email
• Cloud management console to manage network and endpoints remotely
• Multi-layered protection (File Shield, Email Shield, and Behavior Shield) to fight against malware, spam, malicious URLs, and suspicious software processes
• Firewall to block inappropriate network traffic and unreliable connections
• File shredder to properly remove files and make them unrecoverable
• CyberCapture to deliver suspicious files to the Threat Labs for real-time analysis
• Smart scanner to examine the computer for security and performance problems
• SharePoint protection to check uploaded and downloaded files

Much like the products from Avast, AVG AntiVirus Business Edition also has tiered pricing corresponding to the number of protected devices. Prices also fall if you purchase protection for more than a year. The price per device is $46.99 for coverage on fewer than five devices.

AVG AntiVirus Business Edition keeps your identity, data, and transactions safe. With that said, if, for any reason at all, you are unsatisfied with your purchase, utilize AVG's 30-day money-back guarantee.

AVG Internet Security Business Edition

For increased protection, small businesses can opt for AVG Internet Security Business Edition. In addition to the features mentioned in the previous product, it comes with the following:

• Exchange server protection to monitor incoming emails for suspicious attachments, spam, and malicious URLs
• Password protection to secure stored passwords against malware and questionable applications

These additional features are crucial but come with a steeper price (1-4 devices– $56.99). As new features and improvements flow through, your software receives updated releases without an extra charge.

Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business Security

Unlike Avast and AVG, Bitdefender has taken a more straightforward route. The provider has packaged its enterprise-level security software, making it suitable for a small business's needs. GravityZone Small Business Security takes a layered approach to protection, going from risk analytics and hardening, prevention, detection, and response, to reporting and integration. The software comes with a single console to manage security with ease and leaves the door open for add-ons.

Bitdefender offers the following features in this tool:

• Top-notch malware protection scans for viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, adware, keyloggers, rootkits, and more.
• Advanced Anti-Exploit protects your system by catching real-time issues and preventing vulnerabilities due to memory corruption. This feature monitors processes to evade security breaches and hijacking.
• Ransomware Mitigation softens the blow of a ransomware attack by creating a file backup beforehand to avoid data loss. It detects suspicious encryption attempts and blocks them.
• Fileless Attacks Defense blocks fileless malware from executing so that it cannot make memory changes.
• An anti-phishing tool prevents users from disclosing sensitive information by blocking such sites and displaying a warning instead.
• Fraud Prevention provides an additional level of protection against scams by blocking fake websites posing as legitimate parties.
• Web Protection monitors SSL, HTTP, and HTTPS traffic to prevent malware from reaching the endpoint.

The price for GravityZone Small Business Security is listed on its website. Rates go by the number of devices, from $20.99 per year for one device. If you wish to include coverage for your servers, it must account for 30% of the total number of machines, at the most.

The package does not provide mobile security, email protection, patch management, and full disk encryption. However, you can add any of these features for an additional cost.

Norton Small Business Security Software

If you're a small company that doesn't require a business dashboard and remote management capabilities, Norton Small Business and Security Software is the answer. This product from Norton provides 24/7 top-notch cybersecurity, ensures your critical data survives a disaster, and maintains your PCs so that they continue performing optimally.

Norton Small Business cybersecurity pack keeps things simple, from installation to management, so you can focus on running your company. It comes in two versions, and both come with a free trial.

Norton Small Business

This subscription covers the essentials every small company needs to protect its business. It comes with the following features:

• Device Security – Continuous real-time antivirus protection for your devices
• Secure Browser – Secures employees from cybercriminals by keeping their online activities private and safe
• Software Updater – Keeps programs updated to prevent malicious parties from exploiting vulnerabilities
• Utilities Ultimate – Removes junk data and unnecessary apps so Windows runs smoothly
• Password Manager – Creates, stores, and manages passwords and other sensitive information such as credit card credentials
• 250 GB PC Cloud Backup – Prevents any downfall caused by ransomware, PC theft, or problematic hard drives with a copy of your critical data

For Norton Small Business, there are three pricing tiers catering to protection for 6, 10, and 20 devices. It's crucial to note that renewal prices are about double the first-year rates.

Norton Small Business Premium

For all the essentials and a higher level of protection, get Small Business Premium. This plan includes all the features that come with Norton Small Business, plus the following:

• Cloud Backup Storage – 500 GB PC Cloud Backup (instead of 250 GB) for easy data recovery
• Secure VPN – A bank-grade encryption tool for employees to access work applications and websites securely, whether at home or on the go
• Driver Updater – Keeps Windows PC drivers malware-free, safe, and on the latest workable versions by downloading them from a bank of over 60 million drivers

Norton Small Business Premium has two different prices depending on how many devices you'd like to protect (10 or 20). Renewal rates are also twice the amount of first-year coverage prices.

Conclusion – Protect Your IT Setup Today

Small businesses are attractive targets for malicious actors due to their comparatively limited financial resources, time constraints, and lower awareness regarding the implementation of robust security measures. According to leading cybersecurity studies focused on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), a mere 14% of them are adequately prepared to confront cyberattacks.

Accenture's Cybercrime Study underscores the vulnerability of SMBs, reporting that nearly 43% of cyberattacks target these smaller enterprises. Furthermore, the World Economic Forum attributes a significant 95% of these attacks to human error. These concerning figures underscore the urgent necessity for SMB owners to educate themselves, adhere to, and implement cybersecurity best practices and measures to safeguard their businesses effectively.

There's simply no excuse you can give. With the ever-growing number of threats facing businesses, you must secure your devices, networks, and data. Knowledge is vital here, so stay up to date with the latest risks and best practices.

With robust security software and policies in place, you won't just keep the predators away. When you do everything you can to protect your data, you're building client trust and boosting sales. Keep in mind that your small business is always a target, so don't fall victim by being negligent.

 

For further small business security insights, tips, and recommendations, read the following articles at AntivirusAZ.com:

• Small Business Antivirus
• Cybersecurity Tips for Small Business
• Small Businesses and Ransomware Problem
• How to Protect Small Business Against Ransomware

 

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