7 Ways to Ensure Your Business' Security

If you are the owner of a small business, you're well aware that sometimes things fall through the cracks. Here are some VERY useful tips on assuring that your business' security is not one of those things.

Whether your business operates from an office, a storefront, a factory, a mall, or from home, you should review a wide range of security issues. Simple measures can provide great protection for your business. Before the New Year starts, take a comprehensive look at what your security needs are so that you can address them properly.

1. Review your computer systems
Your data may be the heart and soul of your business. In the least, it's critical information that you don't want falling into the wrong hands.

Work with IT experts who can advise you on strategies for computer security; the cost is well worth it. Issues to consider include:

• Which employees have access to sensitive business information, including financial statements, payroll, and other "numbers."
• How to secure and enable access to company information when employees work from home.
• How to secure company information on employees' laptops, tablets, and other devices.
• Which information should be encrypted.
• Whether to migrate to the cloud and the special security issues it presents.

2. Shred documents
As you probably know, "dumpster diving" is a practice in which thieves rummage through your garbage to find credit card numbers and other vital information about your company that can be used to secure loans or buy goods in your name that they never pay for. Information on paper continues to be a problem even though online security may attract center stage. Safeguard your business information, including data on customers and employees, which you put in print. In addition to the obvious reasons for protection, there may be penalties if certain information (e.g., customers' credit cards or employees' health information) is compromised.

Use shredders to properly discard papers that are no longer needed. Also use shredders to get rid of unwanted DVDs.

3. Secure your premises
Break-ins can be costly -- even if you're insured. The insurance may cover the cost of goods stolen but can't replace the time and effort it takes for you to process your claim, replace lost items and recoup your sense of vulnerability. Use a burglar alarm system connected to a central monitoring company where appropriate.

4. Protect property in business vehicles
If your business is "to-go," make sure your transportation and what it carries is protected. For example, don't leave tools exposed on truck beds that are unsupervised. Set up procedures for locking up equipment when vehicles are unattended.

Consider systems that actually prevent vehicle theft (for example, transmission interruption devices).

5. Address concerns about mobile devices
A study by the online security provider McAfee and Carnegie Mellon University shows that 40% of companies have experienced the loss or theft of their mobile devices and half of these devices contained "business critical data." What's more, over one-third of these device losses had a "financial impact" on the business. What are you doing about security on company-issued mobile devices?

Consider apps (there are many) that can help, such as:

• FoneHome ($3.99) for iPhones, iPads, and iPods
• iHound ($2.99) for iPhone users
• iTag (free) for Android users
• PlanB (free) for Android users

If a smartphone has been lost, you can use MissingPhones, a site that offers a free recovery service for lost or stolen phones. You'll need to know the phone's IMEI, MEID, or ESN number, which is a unique identifier located on a sticker under the phone's battery.

6. Educate employees
Unfortunately, staff members may be the biggest security leaks you have. Educate them about the importance of security.

• Have them sign confidentiality agreements upon being hired.
• Stress the need for tight lips concerning prices, intellectual property, and other sensitive company information.
• Explain what information should never be discussed on social media sites.

7. Use proper disposal for electronic equipment
Just because you delete a file doesn't mean it's gone from your hard drive. As you upgrade electronic equipment, be sure to scrub information from old laptops, tablets, cell phones, and other items that you want to remain private.

Find more information on ways to keep your business running smoothly at barbaraweltman.com

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