Free Must Have 12 Point Cyber Security Checklist For Small Businesses

A vital element in addressing these threats is recognising the role of employees in maintaining cyber security. Studies indicate that human error is a major contributor to data breaches, with some estimates as high as 95%, making training and awareness vital components of any cyber security strategy. Empowering employees with the knowledge to identify and respond to threats can drastically reduce vulnerabilities and strengthen your first line of defence.

Recognising these risks, we at Your IT Department have put together a practical cyber security checklist for small business to help protect critical information and create a secure network environment.

 

Table of Contents

 

Introduction

1. Implement a Strong Password Policy

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

3. Limit Access with Principle of Least Privilege

4. Set Up Network Firewalls and Intrusion Prevention Systems

5. Install Anti-Malware and Anti-Virus Software

6. Secure Wi-Fi Networks

7. Back Up Data Regularly

8. Educate Employees on Cyber Security Best Practices

9. Manage and Secure Mobile Devices

10. Enforce an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

11. Monitor Third-Party Access and Manage Shadow IT

12. Establish an Incident Response Plan

How Your IT Department Can Help Protect Your Business

Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. Implement a Strong Password Policy

A strong password policy is a fundamental step in protecting small businesses from cyber attacks. By requiring complex passwords that combine upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols, companies can create a stronger barrier against cyber criminals. Regularly updating passwords across all business accounts and systems further reduces the risk of data breaches. Weak passwords are a major source of risk.

To simplify management, password management tools can securely store and generate strong passwords, helping employees maintain high security standards without compromising convenience.

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a second layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity with something beyond just a password, such as a code sent to a mobile device or a fingerprint scan.

By implementing MFA across all online accounts and network resources, small businesses can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access, adding a critical barrier that makes it harder for cyber criminals to infiltrate systems.

3. Limit Access with Principle of Least Privilege

The principle of least privilege is a security approach that limits user access to only what is necessary for their role. By granting limited access to employees, small businesses can reduce the risk of unauthorised data exposure.

This practice is particularly effective for protecting sensitive data and customer data from potential internal threats or accidental leaks. Implementing strict access controls ensures that only those with a direct need have access to critical resources, keeping systems more secure and lowering the likelihood of breaches.

4. Set Up Network Firewalls and Intrusion Prevention Systems

Implementing network firewalls and intrusion prevention systems is essential for blocking unauthorised access and monitoring potentially harmful activities. A firewall acts as a barrier between your network and external threats, controlling traffic based on defined security rules. Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) work alongside firewalls, scanning for suspicious activity and alerting your security team to any potential breaches.

Regularly updating these systems ensures they remain effective against new cyber threats. Together, firewalls and IPS can help keep your network and sensitive data secure from cyber attacks and malicious actors.

5. Install Anti-Malware and Anti-Virus Software

Installing anti-malware and anti-virus software is essential to protect against malicious software that could compromise your network and data. These programs help detect and remove harmful threats, such as viruses, spyware, and ransomware, which can lead to data breaches or loss of sensitive information.

Scheduling regular scans and enabling automatic updates ensures that your system remains protected against evolving cyber threats. Keeping your anti-virus software up-to-date is a straightforward yet vital step to secure your business and protect customer data from cyber criminals.

6. Secure Wi-Fi Networks

Securing both internal and guest Wi-Fi networks is a critical step in protecting your business data and network resources. Using strong passwords for all Wi-Fi connections reduces the chance of unauthorised access by cyber criminals.

Also, disabling public sharing options on these networks prevents outsiders from gaining access to sensitive information or connected devices. Ensuring your Wi-Fi network is encrypted and secured helps keep your business protected against potential cyber threats.

7. Back Up Data Regularly

Regularly backing up business data is essential to reduce the impact of potential data loss from cyber attacks or hardware failure. Storing backup data in secure locations, such as encrypted cloud solutions, ensures your information is recoverable if the original files are compromised.

By implementing regular data backups and data loss prevention measures, small businesses can recover quickly from cyber incidents and protect both sensitive data and customer data from permanent loss.

8. Educate Employees on Cyber Security Best Practices

Training employees on cyber security best practices is fundamental in defending against common cyber threats like phishing and malicious software. Educating staff to recognise suspicious emails, links, and potential security risks enhances the overall security culture within the organisation. Implementing ongoing cyber security awareness programs, including regular drills and updates, ensures that employees stay alert to new threats and know the correct steps to protect sensitive information and customer data.

For small business owners, investing in continuous employee training is a proactive way to protect your small company against evolving cyber attacks.

9. Manage and Secure Mobile Devices

With the increasing reliance on mobile devices for business tasks, securing these devices is essential to protect sensitive data and network resources. Mobile devices are vulnerable to cyber threats such as malware and unauthorised access, making security policies vital for any small business. Implementing measures like remote wipe capabilities allows businesses to erase data from lost or stolen devices, ensuring customer data and business information remain secure.

Clear policies on device usage, regular security updates, and password protection further enhance mobile security, helping small businesses reduce risk in an ever-connected workplace.

10. Enforce an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

An acceptable use policy (AUP) is a valuable tool for establishing clear boundaries around the use of devices and network resources in the workplace. This policy outlines expected behaviours and defines limitations on using company network systems, ensuring all employees understand what is and isn’t allowed.

An AUP helps to prevent risky actions, such as accessing unsecured websites or downloading unapproved software, and protects the business reputation by reducing exposure to cyber threats. By enforcing this policy, small businesses can create a safer, more secure digital environment and promote responsible use among their staff.

11. Monitor Third-Party Access and Manage Shadow IT

Third-party vendors and unapproved software, known as shadow IT, can introduce significant cyber security risks if not properly managed. Small businesses should carefully monitor any access rights granted to external parties, verifying their security standards to ensure they meet required protections for sensitive information.

Limiting third-party access to only what’s necessary helps minimise potential vulnerabilities. Actively managing shadow IT by restricting unauthorised tools reduces gaps in network security and strengthens the overall cyber security posture of the organisation.

12. Establish an Incident Response Plan

Having a well-structured incident response plan is essential for minimising the damage from a cyber attack or data breach. This plan should outline clear steps for responding to incidents, including assigning roles to specific team members, defining communication channels, and setting up backup options for data recovery.

By preparing in advance, small businesses can respond swiftly to attacks, reduce downtime, and protect their data and customer information effectively.

How Your IT Department Can Help Protect Your Business

At Your IT Department, we specialise in supporting small businesses with extensive cyber security solutions designed to protect data and strengthen network security. Our team of cyber security professionals can implement essential security measures, such as MFA, backup data solutions, and network firewalls, to guard against common threats like malicious software and cyber attacks.