The recent cyber-attacks on the NHS may have you worried about the security of your own data. If a system the size of the NHS’ can be taken down to such an extent, what are the chances something could happen to yours?

Granted, you may not be a national service, but small businesses are particularly at risk of cyber-attacks. A Government Security Breaches Survey released in January revealed that 74% of small organisations reported a security breach to their systems in 2016, and as a result, hackers are more likely to target them.

For small businesses an attack can be catastrophic and can result in the loss of your customers’ personal data as well as your own. This huge percentage reporting a security breach makes it more important than ever for small businesses to be prepared for such attacks, especially considering small businesses are fast becoming a hacker’s favourite target.

Be wary of attachments

Any emails from unknown sources with an attachment, you should steer clear of. If you have clients sending attachments, you should get in contact with them to ensure the link is genuine in case their own email is having trouble.

Phishing scams often begin this way, so it’s important to be extra careful of all anything that looks even slightly suspicious.

Activate firewalls

One of the most obvious precautions small businesses (or anyone) can take against cyber-attacks is installing and updating firewalls. If you’re no technology whizz, it’s probably best to get help from a professional IT expert.

You’ll most likely receive some form of security package with your computer when you buy it, but if you buy a second hand computer, or if yours isn’t new, you should make an effort to check everything is up-to-date.

Update passwords

One of the easiest methods of cyber security you can do yourself is keeping your passwords secure. It may seem too simple to do, but there are thousands who fail to do it. Update your passwords regularly and do not duplicate them for multiple accounts.

To be extra secure, you should use make your password an amalgamation of three words, with numbers and capital letters included.

It may seem like a lot of effort for just logging into your computer, but you’ll know your client’s information and your personal data is that bit safer.

Insurance

If, in spite of your precautions, you still come under attack from a hacker, insurance can at least mean you gain some solace for the problems your small business has faced.

A rising number of attacks on small businesses has increased the demand for security software/ cyber-attack insurance. Unfortunately, cyber-attack insurance policies can be pretty pricey. However, if you’re concerned about an attack, you’ll be glad of the insurance when you have it!

Have you had trouble with cyber-attacks? Or are you worried you may become a target? Leave your comments in the section below!