17 Internet Security Tips for Your Business

Rapid increases in computer power have made 6-8 character passwords easily breakable by hackers. New research by the Georgia Technical Research Institute (GTRI) points to a more sophisticated generation of encryption cracking software. This new generation of cracking software makes it necessary to create a 12 character, randomized password in order to be secure from hackers.

10 Tips for Creating Strong Passwords:

• Use a mixture of alphabetic (both upper and lower case), numeric and special characters
• Always change default passwords from password or admin
• Don’t store your password in or anywhere near your computer
• Test your password with a free password checker (available online)
• Avoid using the names of family members, pets or friends
• Change passwords for all accounts at least once every 6 months
• Never keep the same password for 2 different sites
• Don’t type your password on a computer that doesn’t belong to you
• Eliminate any words that can be found in the dictionary from your passwords
• Never email your password or share it with anyone else

Passwords are not the only security concern facing your business though. Online communications, like chat and email can easily be exploited if security best practices aren’t used.

7 Tips for Keeping Online Communication Secure:

• Don’t download or open content you didn’t specifically request
• Never send private, confidential information through unencrypted email, or web forms
• Never use personal email or chat to send or receive confidential business information
• Never enter any personal information into a pop-up screen
• Think of your computer as your home. Don’t leave it unprotected. Utilize antivirus, antispyware, download scanner and firewall programs to protect your communication
• Use a powerful spam filter
• Setup your email/IM systems to block all .exe files by default

Data and information are the most important assets of many businesses in the information age. Much employee, customer and business data must be kept confidential and secure for your business to succeed. Weak passwords and faulty online communication practices can jeopardize the very existence and reputation of your company. For this reason, careful consideration must be used in developing security policies and implementing a business security plan. In addition to email passwords and online communication awareness, network security protection is also vital to your business safety.

Northwest Computer Support has an experienced team of Internet Security consultants to help you with email security, internet security, network security for your business.

Call us at 866.575.9511 or Contact Us today for more information.