6 Facts about Computer Security That Could Save Your Business

There are people out there who want to steal your information and others who merely want to wreck havoc. The following facts could help you ensure those things don't happen.

1. Unsafe passwords. Don't ever write down your passwords and leave them at your desk. If ever anyone wanted to break into your computer system, that is one of the first places they would look for clues. And always create strong passwords. Simple passwords like "123abc," or "bobby7" are easy enough for hackers to crack simply by brute force.

2. Unsafe websites. Not all websites are safe. Some sites come with a free, but unsolicited download—malware that might include a keystroke logger to record all your passwords. Make certain your antivirus software can handle website visits to block dangerous downloads, and that your browser settings require confirmation of downloads.

3. Unsafe software. An operating system or other software may have flaws that bad hats have discovered and have figured out a way to take advantage of. These "advantages" are called "exploits" and could result in disruption of service, theft of data or the destruction of data. Always keep your software and operating system up to date. As soon as software vendors discover a vulnerability, they attempt to fix it with an update.

4. Unsafe people. Anyone can pretend to be someone they are not, and when a systems administrator calls you up to get your password, do not give it to them. The person calling may not even work for your company.

5. Unsafe emails. A popular ploy by malicious individuals has been to use emails to elicit private information. It may look official, with the company logo and impressive graphics, but the email which asks for your password is guaranteed to be bogus. Passwords are supposed to be secure. Every company on the planet knows this. Giving out passwords to someone who sends you an email is horribly insecure.

6. Corporate training available. Online training courses are available for such things as information security awareness training, computer security training, it security training, cyber security training, and online security training. These kinds of e-learning programs make it easy for all employees to stay up to date on these important, business saving topics.

Any security system is only as good as its weakest link. If an employee does not know how to handle a nefarious email or a phone call from someone pretending to be corporate security, then the entire company is open to attack. Get everyone trained and protect your corporate assets.

Image Credit: prasan.naik on Flickr