Almost every organization has some form of online presence these days, and many rely heavily on their online systems and networks to do business. Unfortunately, this also makes them tempting targets for cybercriminals. A successful cyber attack can cause serious damage, not just to your business, but also to your customers and your reputation.

To help you protect your business, we've put together this comprehensive guide to seven signs that your network and systems may be vulnerable to attack. By being aware of these six signs and taking steps to mitigate them, you can significantly reduce the chances of your business becoming a victim of a successful cyber attack.

1. You Don't Have a Firewall

One of the most important things you can do to protect your network is to install and properly configure a firewall. A firewall is a system that helps to prevent unauthorized access to your network by filtering traffic and blocking certain types of traffic, such as malicious traffic.

If you don't have a firewall, or if your firewall is not properly configured, your network is vulnerable to attack. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in your network to gain access to your systems and data. Additionally, if you have remote access to your network (such as through a VPN), a firewall can help to prevent unauthorized access to your network from the Internet.

2. You Don't Have Up-to-Date Antivirus Software

Another important security measure is to have up-to-date antivirus software installed on all of your computers and devices. Antivirus software helps to protect your devices from malware, which is software that is designed to damage or disable your computer.

If you don't have antivirus software, or if your antivirus software is out of date, your devices are vulnerable to attack. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in your devices to install malware, which can damage or disable your computer. Additionally, malware can be used to steal your data or to gain access to your network.

3. Your Passwords Are Weak

One of the most common ways that cybercriminals gain access to systems and data is by guessing or brute-forcing passwords. If you use weak passwords, or if you use the same password for multiple accounts, it is easier for cybercriminals to gain access to your systems and data.

To help protect your accounts, be sure to use strong passwords that are unique to each account. A strong password is at least 8 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Additionally, you should never use the same password for multiple accounts.

4. You Don't Have Two-Factor Authentication Enabled

Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of security that can help protect your accounts from being hacked. With two-factor authentication enabled, you will be required to enter not only your password, but also a code that is sent to your mobile device.

If you are not using two-factor authentication, be sure to enable it for all of your accounts. Additionally, you should consider using a password manager that can generate and store strong, unique passwords for all of your accounts.

5. You Don't Have Adequate Cyber Security Training for Your Staff

One of the best ways to protect your business from cyber-attacks is to educate your staff on cyber security. Your employees should know how to spot phishing emails, how to create strong passwords, and how to keep their devices secure.

Additionally, you should have a cyber security policy in place that outlines the steps that employees should take to keep your business safe. Be sure to review your policy regularly and update it as needed.

6. You Don't Have a Disaster Recovery Plan

If your business is hit with a cyber attack, it is important to have a plan in place for how you will recover. Your plan should include steps for how you will restore your systems and data, how you will communicate with your customers and employees, and how you will prevent future attacks.

Be sure to test your disaster recovery plan regularly to ensure that it is up-to-date and that it will work as intended.

Don't Take Shortcuts on Your Cyber Security Protection

Cybersecurity vulnerabilities can pose a serious threat to any organization if not properly managed. By understanding the seven signs your network and systems may be weak, you can take steps to mitigate the risks and keep your organization safe.

Entre Technologies is a leader in the IT industry, offering IT management and development throughout Western Massachusetts and the North East. If you are looking for a managed IT company or a cyber security company to help grow and protect your business, contact us today!