Managing malware concerns: Steps for growing businesses

Small business owners and startup founders are often skeptical about cybersecurity spending. This often happens because these businesses believe that they don’t have enough data or resources to interest hackers and cybercriminals. However, data shows that huge number of small and growing companies have suffered security breaches and incidents, often because of malware attacks. Malware refers to malicious files and programs, which are developed by hackers with different intentions, such as stealing data, gaining remote access, or spying. Below are some of the steps that growing businesses can take to address malware concerns.

Keeping phishing emails in check. Phishing emails are so common that almost every business has received at least one of these. There are a few red flags that are obvious in phishing emails – spelling and grammar errors in email addresses and content, urgent deadlines, or an offer that’s too good to be true. Businesses should encourage employees to report such phishing emails without responding.
Install antimalware software. There are all sorts of antimalware suites in the market, including anti-ransomware, anti-spyware, anti-adware, and antivirus solutions. Make sure that these are installed on all workstations and systems, so that malicious files are detected and removed without delay.
Take regular backups. Backups are a must, especially when it comes to addressing ransomware concerns. In case of a ransomware attack, data and systems can be restored with backups. Such backups for all sensitive and important data should be scheduled periodically.
Implement multifactor authentication. MFA, or multifactor authentication, is critical for malware prevention. In case hackers manage to get passwords, MFA will ensure that they do not get past the first stage of authentication. MFA could mean including security questions that only employees can answer or onetime passwords sent to mobile.
Network monitoring is a must. Penetration testing and network monitoring are important tools for detecting backdoor and unverified activities. Make sure that these tests are done periodically and often also without informing the teams.

Finally, for malware prevention and better cybersecurity, it is imperative that the entire organization comes together. The best idea would be to have a security team in place that would take care of all reports and incidents related to malware. As needed, cybersecurity experts can be hired to handle training of employees. Malware will come from a source, and therefore, all links, emails, downloads should be verified twice before using/running.

Check online to find more on best antimalware suites for small businesses.