Ian Robertson
In an era where digital technology is part of our day-to-day operations, protecting your business from cyber threats is a must. For small to medium-sized businesses, managing passwords effectively is a crucial part of your cybersecurity strategy. As Victoria, BC-based IT consultants, Robertson Technology Group, we're here to guide you through this process with the following advice.
1. Avoid Simple Passwords
The first step in reducing risk in your cybersecurity protocol is avoiding simple passwords. While they may be easier to remember, they're also easier for cybercriminals to crack. According to a survey by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, the most common password in breach data was '123456', found over 23 million times. To secure your business, passwords should be complex, ideally containing a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
2. Change Passwords Regularly
Regularly changing your passwords is a proven strategy in maintaining secure systems. By updating passwords frequently, you make it more difficult for hackers to gain unauthorized access to your systems. Just ensure that employees are not reusing old passwords or creating variations of the same password.
3. Never Write Your Password Down
Although it might seem convenient to jot down passwords for easy reference, this habit poses a significant security risk. Physical copies of passwords can be easily lost or stolen, opening a window of opportunity for cybercriminals. It's important to emphasize to your team the need to memorize passwords or to use safe methods such as a password manager.
4. Use a Password Manager
Password managers are digital vaults that store your passwords securely. They not only relieve the pressure of remembering multiple complex passwords, but also help generate strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. The use of a password manager is often suggested by IT consultants to enhance cybersecurity.
5. Implement a Multifactor Authentication System
Multifactor authentication adds another layer of security by requiring additional verification beyond just a password. This could be something you have (like a smartphone), something you are (like a fingerprint), or something you know (like a password). It significantly improves your business's cybersecurity posture by making it much harder for an attacker to gain access to your accounts.
Applying these password management tips is an important step towards a more secure business environment. Here in Victoria, BC, businesses are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of robust cybersecurity practices. As your local IT consultants, we strongly endorse the adoption of these measures.
Managing the cybersecurity of your business can seem challenging, but Robertson Technology Group is here to help. We specialize in managed technology security and support solutions for small to medium businesses, focusing on getting to know your business to provide an exceptional support experience. Our mission is to lead the way in providing innovative solutions through strategic partnerships and an empowered team committed to learning and growth. Let us shoulder the burden of technology management, so you can concentrate on what you do best – running your business.
Have a read of some other articles in our 9 day cybersecurity series:
- Security Solutions Every Business Must Have
- Network Security Recommendations for Small Businesses
- Best Practices in the Age of Remote Work
- Password Management Tips for Small Business
- Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in Your Business
- Everything Small Businesses Need to Know About VPNs
- Best Practices for Cybersecurity Training
- Protect Your Data with a Phishing Test
- Advantages of Outsourcing Your Company's Cybersecurity
