Data breaches are big problems for businesses around the world. But, if employees understand cybersecurity risks, they can minimize the risk of costly, time-intensive data breaches.  

Cybersecurity rules are crucial for businesses and their employees. Now, let’s look at 15 rules that can help employees reduce the risk of cybersecurity incidents.  

1. Prioritize Data Protection

Do not share any business information with unknown parties. Cybercriminals often use phishing emails and other types of cyberattacks to steal data from workers. However, employees who prioritize data protection are well-equipped to identify attempts to acquire sensitive business data.  

2. Watch for Suspicious Emails

Keep an eye out for emails that come from unknown senders or contain misspellings. These emails may be malicious, and links or attachments may contain viruses.  

3. Update Passwords Frequently

Perform password updates at least every three months. Business account passwords should contain a combination of numbers, letters, and special characters, and no two passwords should be the same.  

4. Use Two-Factor Authentication

Initiate two-factor authentication (2FA) on business devices. With 2FA, employees will be required to enter the username and password, then complete an additional step before they can access a business device.  

5. Leverage Secure Wi-Fi

Avoid public Wi-Fi networks. Instead, workers should use secure Wi-Fi networks or virtual private networks (VPNs).  

6. Use a Firewall

Leverage a company’s firewall to maintain secure access to data. Additionally, remote workers can use a firewall for their home network. 

7. Install Antivirus and Antimalware Software

Utilize antivirus and antimalware software on business devices. Verify that this software comes from an authorized security vendor.  

8. Ensure Security Software Is Up to Date

Perform regular security software updates. If possible, set up automatic updates to ensure software updates are instantly downloaded when they become available.  

9. Back Up Data Regularly

Back up business data to a USB or external hard drive. Furthermore, encrypt this data.  

10. Avoid Shadow IT

Use only authorized business devices for work tasks. For workers who want to use personal smartphones or tablets for work, consult with an IT department to minimize the risk of shadow IT.  

11. Lock Up Business Devices

Ensure business devices are locked up and secure any time a worker needs to spend an extended period of time away from their workstation.  

12. Learn About Evolving Cyber Threats

Stay up to date on cyber threats. New cyber threats are emerging, and learning about these dangers allows can help workers identify these dangers before they result in data breaches.  

13. Report Cybersecurity Incidents

Keep managers informed about any cybersecurity incidents. This enables both employees and managers to remain proactive in their efforts to stop data breaches.  

14. Provide Feedback

Offer feedback to managers about a business’ cybersecurity efforts. This allows a business to explore ways to continuously improve its security posture.   

15. Proceed with Caution

Watch for cyberattacks every day. A cyberattack can happen at any time, but employees who understand the impact of cyberattacks can do their part to prevent these attacks from causing severe damage.  

Discover Your Dream Job with Help from HCR 

HCR is a light industrial staffing firm committed to helping job seekers in any way we can. In addition to offering cybersecurity tips, we can connect job seekers with some of the top companies in the Greater Toronto Area and Southwestern Ontario. To learn more, please contact us today.