Cybersecurity is one of the most serious international security challenges that is faced by most of the business giants and pioneers. Theft of digital information has surged and become a new form of fraud. Cybercrime is pervasive & inevitable and is spreading like a rage of fire in LA and across the world. Hence, at this point, it is important to secure your data and protect your business from being a victim of malware, ransomware, and cybercrime.
In this post, we will share 5 cyber security tips for businesses in Los Angeles. These are simple yet efficient tips to change the odds of you becoming a victim.
Why Are Hackers Targeting Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is a hub for Latin American businesses and has the third-largest metropolitan economy in the world. Therefore, LA is mostly targeted by cyber attackers, and why not cyber criminals can easily target potential financial victims with minimum effort. In 2018, the estimated cost of cyber threats was $2.7 billion which is constantly growing each year. Although, with the implementation of advanced security software, entrepreneurs can make their businesses less prone to cyber attackers and hacking. Hence, cyber security in Los Angeles must be given priority by entrepreneurs to protect their businesses against cyber bullies.
Other than targeting businesses, cybercriminals also find this city tempting for stealing data from LAUSD schools and Western Hemisphere ports. According to recent reports, hackers stole data from the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) through a ransomware attack. Cybercriminals are also targeting Western Hemisphere ports and their monthly attacks are around 40 million according to the port’s executive director Gene Seroka.
5 Cyber Security Tips For Business In Los Angeles
Limited Access to Sensitive Data
Cyber security in Los Angeles is a big concern for all business owners. Despite being tech-savvy, many enterprises end up being victims of cybercrimes. To ensure data safety, entrepreneurs need to provide limited access to sensitive data. Business owners should restrict the number of employees who can access critical data to reduce the impact of data breaches.
Setting out a proper hierarchy that outlines which employees have access to sensitive data will not only reduce chaos but also effectively identify who is accountable for mishaps.
Go With Strong Password
When we talk about password security, the length of the password does matter. It is mostly advised to keep at least twelve 12 characters long passwords that include numbers, uppercase, lowercase, and even special characters. Opting for a strong and unique password is the simplest way to ensure your online safety. Please keep in mind, do not use the same passwords every time and try to keep different passwords for different accounts.
Use A Secure Wi-Fi network
If you are using a Wired Equivalent Privacy network (WEP), then ensure you quickly switch to a secure version like WPA2. In case you’ve already opted for WPA2, then make sure you timely upgrade the infrastructure to prevent unnecessary vulnerability.
When you use a secure Wi-Fi network, it protects your business and information against potential cyber threats and breaches. Cybercriminals often use a different and fake name to wirelessly connect with your router. This approach is also known as Service Set Identifier (SSID). Business owners can rely on complex Pre-shared Key (PSK) passphrases to add an extra layer of security to prevent hackers from getting inside.
Ensure Regular Data Backups
Cybercrimes have been on the rise across the globe, cyber security in Los Angeles can’t be left at a bare minimum. As hackers are quite interested in targeting big cities, backing up your data plays a crucial role in maintaining business continuity. Ensuring regular data backups allow organizations to continue their operations even after experiencing a cyber attack.
Keep Your Devices Update-To-Date
It is recommended by experts to use updated software and devices. When you use an updated system, smartphone, tablet, or any other device, it helps strengthen the security of your business. Moreover, when you update your devices regularly, they can fix minor security flaws and bugs that you might encounter in the prior version.
However, updating your gadgets won’t guarantee any protection against cyber attacks, but there is no harm in using an updated version that has more capabilities.
Conclusion
Adopting a cybersecurity culture has always been a significant factor of any business cyber security strategy. As LA is a hub for startups, cyber security in Los Angeles is a top priority for all entrepreneurs.
If you’re a business owner and keep your data online, cyber security strategy shouldn’t be overlooked at any cost. Keeping updated with new technologies and cyber attack methods also give you an edge over securing your business and vital data. However, as a business owner, if you have too much on your plate, you can hire an experienced cyber security expert to ensure your business is well-protected against cyber threats.
