When we think of organizations that need site security we often think of big corporations like Amazon, Target, or Netflix—websites that are visited by millions of people each day and hold important user information. However, small businesses and nonprofits need to take the right steps to help keep confidential data away from hackers.
Smaller organizations also have an obligation to keep clients’ online credit card payments, social security numbers, and other personal data safe. No one wants their personal information to fall into the wrong hands. But smaller organizations sometimes struggle to protect their site because of the complexities of site security. Although you may want to hire someone to help you if online security seems too complicated for you, we thought we’d share some simple ways you can help yourself today!
With or without extra help, a “hacker-free” website is impossible. However, you can improve your website security and follow basic guidelines to deter hacking. Take a look at our guidelines to see where you’re vulnerable and how to fix it.
Create strong passwords and update them regularly
A lot of hacking-related breaches occur because of weak passwords or passwords that are rarely updated. Use a password generator to create a stronger password that is long, uses upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. This can sometimes be a pain, but it’s worth it for the extra security!
If you choose a password instead of using a password generator, don’t pick words or numbers that are predictable like your name, phone number, address, or birthday. A hacker could do a quick background check on you and find this information within minutes.
Another pro tip when it comes to passwords? Use a different password for each platform. Your bank, QuickBooks software, Amazon account, Instagram login, and business website should use completely different passwords.
If you aren’t running a business solo, remind your employees to change their passwords every three months or sooner.
Keep Your Software and Plugins Up-To-Date
This is an easy fix and doesn’t require you to be a computer whiz. Updates exist to fix vulnerabilities in the software and therefore enhance security.
When your website’s software and applications aren’t up-to-date, you leave your whole website at risk. As soon as you see a request for a software or plugin update, don’t ignore it but follow the instructions as soon as you can! Take care of it right away and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your website is more secure.
Be Cautious When Using Public Wifi
Whether you popped into a coffee shop to work remotely for a few minutes, or you’re using the public internet at an airport, use extreme caution and take preventive measures.
- Verify that the network you’re connecting to is the public network. Ask someone in charge or look for signs that mention wifi.
- Don’t enter or access sensitive information. Avoid anything where you need to access bank information, use a username and password, enter a social security number, etc.
- Never store credit card details to any account—even if it’s the convenient thing to do!
What if you really need to do work on your computer while you’re out and about? Instead of connecting to public wifi, use your hotspot.
Now You Can Take Your Site Security to Another Level
After you’ve completed those simple steps to keep your site secure, you can take it up a notch. You can either educate yourself and implement more security measures on your own, or you can work with a professional to advise you on the latest and most effective security tools.
Want to do everything on your own but don’t know where to start? Make sure you prioritize these security measures
- Install Security Socket Layer (SSL) certificates
- Back-up Your Website
- Use an Effective Anti-Malware Program
- Implement the Right Content Management System (CMS)
- Use Website Security Testing Tools
Don’t fall prey to hackers this year! Keep your website secure, your clients’ information confidential, and you’ll have more peace of mind while your business thrives.
If thinking about website security sends you into a panic, call Transcend Ideas today! Our team is happy to provide thorough security testing on your site and ensure that you and your customer’s information remain safe from hackers. Let’s get coffee and chat about your options!
