Many businesses breathe a sigh of relief after peak periods like Valentine’s Day, assuming the heightened security risk is behind them. This is a dangerous misconception. Cyberthreats don’t disappear just because the holiday is over; they remain a constant and evolving concern.
So, while you’re recovering from the Valentine’s Day rush, don’t let your guard down. Now is the perfect time to review and reinforce your cybersecurity defenses and prepare for the next wave of cyberthreats.
Take a look at this cybersecurity checklist to help you protect your business, not just during peak seasons, but all year round.
Review and update security software
Regularly updating your security software is key to defending against cyberthreats of all kinds. It’s even more important during peak seasons, when system downtime or a data breach can be especially disruptive and costly.
It’s therefore crucial to apply updates to your antivirus software, firewalls, and all other security applications as soon as they are available. Automate this process where possible to ensure consistent protection. And don’t forget about your operating systems and other software like plugins and extensions, which can also be points of vulnerability.
Educate your employees
During busy periods, employees are often overwhelmed, making them more likely to make mistakes that can compromise security — and cybercriminals know this. They step up their efforts, seizing the opportunity to target stressed and distracted employees with social engineering and other tactics to steal sensitive data, gain access to systems, and ultimately, profit from the chaos.
Related reading: 5 Valentine’s Day cyberthreats businesses should watch for
Protect your business by empowering your team with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe. Develop a training program that teaches them how to recognize phishing emails, avoid clicking suspicious or unsolicited links, and adopt safe browsing habits.
To test their awareness of the signs of cyberthreats and reinforce best practices, conduct exercises that simulate real-world attacks. These simulations provide a hands-on learning experience, allowing employees to practice their skills in a realistic setting and identify areas where further training is needed.
Fortify your network
The sheer volume of network traffic during periods of increased business activity makes it more difficult to spot malicious connections. You need robust firewalls and intrusion detection systems to maintain security, and make sure they’re properly configured and up to date.
You should also implement network segmentation to isolate sensitive data and limit the damage if a breach occurs. Finally, you should run vulnerability scans on a regular basis. Finding and fixing weaknesses proactively is much better than waiting for a hacker to find them first.
Secure your website and eCommerce platform
If you have a website or eCommerce platform, secure it by using HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) to encrypt data transmitted between your website and visitors. Also, regularly update your website software and plugins, and implement measures to protect against attacks such as SQL injection. It also helps to conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities in your website or eCommerce platform.
Evaluate your security policies and incident response plan
Assess how your security measures held up under the increased traffic and activity. Did any incidents occur, or were there close calls? Use this time to refine your incident response plan, ensuring it addresses any weaknesses identified during the busy season. A comprehensive review will better prepare you for future peak periods and potential security threats.
Additionally, communicate any changes to your security policies and incident response plan to your employees. Effective security relies on everyone knowing what to do in the event of a security incident.
Stay informed
The cybersecurity landscape is always changing, but staying informed makes a huge difference in your business’s ability to defend against attacks. By subscribing to security newsletters, attending webinars, and following industry blogs, you’re taking proactive steps to protect your business.
This vigilance gives you the knowledge you need to adapt your defenses and face emerging threats with confidence, ensuring you’re always prepared for what’s next.
Cybercriminals don’t take holidays. Take proactive steps now to safeguard your business from costly attacks and disruptions. Contact TEKZYS today for an evaluation of your current security posture and expert guidance on strengthening your defenses.