Introduction
Data security is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes, but small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face unique challenges. Limited budgets and small IT teams mean SMBs often lack the resources of larger enterprises. However, SMBs still hold valuable data that cybercriminals seek to exploit.
This year, SMBs must prioritize data security to protect customers and maintain compliance. Implementing the right strategies now will help SMBs avoid costly data breaches down the road. Here are 6 essential data security strategies every SMB should adopt in 2023.
1. Train Employees on Security Best Practices
Human error is a leading cause of data breaches. SMB employees often lack security training and let their guard down against social engineering attacks like phishing emails.
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SMBs must implement comprehensive security awareness training to change behaviors. Training should cover password management, detecting phishing attempts, safe web browsing, email security, and proper handling of sensitive data.
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Annual refresher courses keep security top of mind. New employees should receive training before accessing company systems.
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Setting security policies and enforcing them through training reduces mistakes that expose data.
2. Adopt Zero Trust Architecture
Traditional security models operate on the assumption that anyone inside the network perimeter is trusted. The zero trust model eliminates that assumption by enforcing strict identity verification and least-privilege access.
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With zero trust, users must authenticate through multifactor authentication before accessing applications and data. All access requests are then vetted to ensure they align with established permissions.
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Segmenting access by role limits exposure if a credential is compromised. For SMBs, zero trust boosts security without requiring major new investments.
3. Install Endpoint Security on All Devices
The rise of remote and hybrid work means SMB endpoints are outside the office network perimeter. Endpoint security is essential to protect devices and detect threats.
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Deploy antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and patch management across endpoints. Many solutions are available for SMBs through monthly subscriptions.
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Endpoint security blocks malware, detects intrusions, and updates vulnerable software. Automating patch management is critical as SMBs may lack dedicated IT staff.
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Extend security to all devices that access company accounts, including personal mobile devices enrolled in BYOD programs.
4. Back Up Critical Data
Ransomware makes reliable backups mandatory. Attackers know SMBs often pay ransoms to recover encrypted data. Backups deny attackers leverage over the data.
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Automate backups to run daily for files, databases, and systems. The 3-2-1 rule (three copies, two media types, one offsite copy) provides resilience.
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Store backup copies offline and out of reach of ransomware. The cloud offers an easy offsite destination.
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Test restoring backups to ensure you can successfully recover when needed. This step is often neglected.
5. Control Access with Multifactor Authentication
Compromised credentials were involved in over 80% of breaches last year. Multifactor authentication (MFA) blocks attackers from abusing stolen passwords or usernames.
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Use MFA across all administrative accounts, user logins, and privileged access. Sync MFA policies across on-prem and cloud platforms.
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SMS and authenticator apps both offer good MFA options for SMBs – balance usability and security.
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Train users on MFA during onboarding. Adoption is crucial for SMB staff with multiple roles and access needs.
6. Monitor for Threats with SIEM Tools
Without proper monitoring, SMBs can miss critical security events hidden in system logs. Security information and event management (SIEM) solutions provide visibility.
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SIEM tools aggregate and analyze log data to detect attacks. Many SMB-friendly SIEM platforms are now available as cloud services.
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Bolster in-house monitoring capabilities by routing logs from firewalls, endpoints, email servers, and cloud applications to SIEM tools.
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Tune detection policies to identify known attack patterns. SMBs can leverage threat intelligence from vendors to enhance defenses.
Conclusion
Data security threats are growing in sophistication. Lacking proper precautions this year, SMBs leave themselves open to costly ransoms and fines. Following these 6 strategies tailored for SMB capabilities and constraints helps lock down data and ensures regulatory compliance.
Protecting customer data and business operations from disruption must be a top 2023 priority. With training, vigilance, and proactive security measures, SMBs can hold the line against cyberattacks.
