Small businesses lack cyber security measures, awareness

Multiple recent reports indicate that small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) may be suffering from a case of overconfidence regarding their data protection capabilities.

Although more than three-quarters of respondents to a JZ Analytics, Symantec and National Cyber Security Alliance survey believe their companies are safe from cyber attacks, only 17 percent actually have formal protocol measures in place. In addition, nearly 60 percent of SMBs do not have formal policies to respond to data breaches.

"It's terrifying that the majority of U.S. small businesses believe their information is protected, yet so many do not have the required policies or protection in place to remain safe," said Brian Burch, Symantec's vice president of Americas marketing for SMB. "For the small, poorly protected companies that suffer an attack, it's often fatal to their business."

Another recent survey by Shred-it yielded similar results about Canadian small businesses. Although more than three-quarters of respondents are aware of data protection regulations, more than 40 percent lack formal policies. Another 31 percent admitted that employees hadn't been educated about the issue.

Security tips
Fortunately for SMBs, an abundance of strategies can be put in place to make their networks safer:

- Employee education is key: Lack of awareness could be the biggest issue right now. The Shred-it survey found that more than 60 percent of respondents did not believe security breaches posed a threat to their companies' finances or reputation.

- Protect essential information: Encrypt email and any other data that is vital to the business' success.

- Password policies: Breaking into accounts is a favorite method of hackers. Requiring employees to use complicated passwords makes that a lot tougher.

- Implement security plans: Companies need to have strong protocols in place to prevent and react to data breaches, and should consider hiring a devoted employee or employees to carry out these measures.

Source: http://www.proofpoint.com/about-us/security-compliance-and-cloud-news/articles/small-businesses-lack-cyber-security-measures-awareness-800888260

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