It is 2019. Have you completed a cyber risk assessment?

This year is barely two months old. There’s still plenty to do, and a lot of opportunities within your business. Now is also a prime time to take a few extra safety steps to keep things secure. One of the tasks on your list should be a full review of your cyber security policies. After all, if you don’t take care of your computer networks, you could cause a lot of problems for both yourself and your clients. So, how can you protect your networks in a few simple steps?

Protecting sensitive company data can reduce the liabilities you pose to customers. The better your security, the lower your overall risk of dissatisfying losses.

Keep These System Management Tips in Mind

Think about what your computer systems contain. They might hold:

• Customer information, like addresses, social security numbers, credit card information and phone numbers.
• Private records, such as medical information, tax documents or bank account data.
• Company information, such as the employee roster, financial documents and more.
• Inventory and stock information.
• The business owner's personal data

You don’t want any of this information to become public. However, the fact is, cyber thieves and other bad actors target major data networks every day. Their methods have become more and more sophisticated. New tactics emerge all the time. Therefore, you must keep your data security networks up-to-date. Keep these tips in mind to help you do so:

• Establish a multi-step process to access data. You might require users to enter both passwords and access codes to open certain drives.
• Never allow free access to company computers. Only employees and the owner should know passwords and other information. Do not share this information with anyone.
• Teach employees the proper data security steps. Remind them not to open suspicious emails, never click on unknown links and to never share their log-in information.
• Keep your security systems working and install the latest updates. You might need encryption services, firewalls, virus scanners, backup devices and more.
• Many businesses hire licensed IT professionals to support their data networks. Some employ these workers in-house. Others, however, might outsource this service.

If you do face a data breach event, you might wonder if you have any type of recourse through your insurance. After all, the recovery costs might skyrocket and put the company in a bad place. If you cyber liability insurance, you might have assistance available. These policies might help you pay to recover data, put in place new safeguards or even compensate clients who sustain losses from exposed information. Don’t hesitate to get one today, call and talk to an agent at 708.423.2350.

Also Read: Why Won't General Liability Insurance Cover Cyber Breaches?