Pub. 57 2016-2017 Issue 3

28 Administrative privileges should only be given to trusted IT staff and key personnel. Make sure a separate user account is created for each employee and require strong passwords. The FCC has provided ten key cybersecurity tips to protect your small business, summarized here: 1. Train employees in security principles. Establish basic security practices and policies for them to follow, including strong passwords and appropriate Internet use guidelines, and detail penalties for violating company cybersecurity policies. Institute rules for handling and protecting customer information and other vital data. 2. Protect information, computers, and networks from cyberattacks. Rely on the latest security software, web browser and operating system for the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Set antivirus software to run a scan after each update. Install other key software updates as soon as they are available. 3. Provide firewall security for your Internet connec- tion. A firewall is a set of related programs that prevent outsiders from accessing data on a private network. If employees work from home, ensure that their home system(s) are protected by a firewall. 4. Create a mobile device action plan. Mobile devices can create significant security and management chal- lenges, especially if they hold confidential information or can access the corporate network. Require users to password protect their devices, encrypt their data and install security apps to prevent criminals from stealing information while the device is on public networks. Be sure to set reporting procedures for lost or stolen equipment. 5. Make copies of important business data and infor- mation, and back up the data on all computers on a regular basis either offsite or in the cloud. Critical data includes word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, human resources files, and accounts receivable/payable files. 6. Control physical access to your computers. Adminis- trative privileges should only be given to trusted IT staff and key personnel. Make sure a separate user account is created for each employee and require strong passwords. Prevent access or use of business computers by unau- thorized individuals. Laptops, which are particularly easy targets for theft and can be easily lost, should be locked up when unattended. 7. Secure your workplaceWi-Fi networks. They should be encrypted, and hidden. To hide your Wi-Fi network, set up your wireless access point or router so it does not broadcast the network name, known as the Service Set Identifier (SSID). Password protect access to the router.  CYBERSECURITY TIPS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES — CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26