9 Things You Should Do On Computer Security Day

November 30th has been dubbed Computer Security Day as a way of reminding computer users worldwide that basic protective measures can mean all the difference when it comes to thwarting cyber crime.

We recommend taking today to perform a few basic security checks and to follow up anything you've may have been putting off.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Revisit your workplace's computer/network security policy. Staff should make sure they’re up to date on all policies and procedures.
2. Check your workstation and office for security and safety issues. This is a good time for in-house IT staff to inspect the server room, while employees ensure that important hardware is plugged into surge protectors or backup power supplies. You can also use this time to test your smoke detectors if they haven’t been inspected in a while.
3. Check the security and safety of your computer hardware. Is important hardware physically protected against theft? You may want to consider Kensington locks, or some other method of deterring physical theft.
4. Change your passwords. If it’s been a while since your passwords have been changed, now is a good time to create new ones. As always, be sure to use strong passwords!
5. Check for software and program vulnerabilities. Run antivirus/malware scans and ensure that all software is updated.
6. Verify computer inventories. Make sure you know the disposition of all hardware and that all software licenses are accounted for.
7. Update computer security training manuals. There’s a good chance that some of the information may be out of date.
8. Backup your computer data. If you don’t have an automated backup and recovery solution in place, use today to make sure all of your important business data is backed up in a safe place.
9. Hold a phishing awareness meeting. Scam emails create a lot of problems for businesses - especially this time of year. Remind your staff to be on the lookout for suspicious emails and NOT to click email links.

Note that if you’re using an IT service provider like Integral Networks, many of these tasks are being handled by our team of experts. It’s still a good idea to make sure your internal staff is aware of cyber threats and how to avoid them!

Computer Security Day

It may not be an official holiday, but Computer Security Day serves as a great reminder to take your cybersecurity seriously as we go into the holiday season.

If you have any questions about protecting your business from cyber threats, please don’t hesitate to contact us!