It’s not easy running an online business. You’re forever in competition with other websites, some of which have vastly more resources than you do. You also have to continually be looking for ways to keep things fresh, and ensuring that every customer is nothing but thrilled with their experience with your company. And there’s another threat, too, one that could wind up your business altogether if it was severe enough: cybercrime, which has been on the rise for years, is one of the most concerning aspects for those running an online business. Below, we take a look at five ways you can help to keep those cybercriminals at bay.

Here’s a simple guide to business and computer safety and security for creators and small business owners:

Using a VPN

My favorite way is using a VPN whenever I go or am – it’s always on. I tried them all but my favorite is this one. They often have great deals on offer, as it’s new to us to pay for a service like VPN, it’s necessary. Especially when it comes to safety, you don’t want to download some random service or a free one, because they’ll use your data to pay for the service. And that’s totally against the cause here! So getting the best service for the best price is what I’m looking after.

I got a deal for $90 for 3 years I believe, which is something I’d absolutely pay for a service like a VPN. To see what kind of deal is on offer now, head over to their website!

(oh and besides using it for protection, it’s also a great way to have a look at other country’s Netflix collection 🤫)

Keep Things Updated

Here’s how it works. Software companies make their services secure, and then, after time, criminals crack the code. But they can’t do too much damage, because while they were trying to crack the code, the software company released an update, with even better security! You’ll only be well-protected, however, if you’ve updated your software. Criminals look out for older versions of software, and if that’s what you’re using, then they’re going to target you. Whenever an update is available, install it; it takes all of a few minutes, but might just save your business.

Strong and Long Passwords

We know this might seem like the most obvious piece of advice, but there’s a reason why we need to include it: people still haven’t got the message when it comes to passwords. If yours is something that can easily be found out by another person – say, date of birth – then it’s imperative that you up your password game. If you use a combination of numbers, lower and upper case letters, and symbols, then a would-be criminal would give up long before they were anywhere near cracking your code.

Work With Professionals

You’re busy trying to make your business a success, so it’s understandable that you’re unable to give up much of your time to focus on your cybersecurity. However, to keep your business safe, it needs to be a priority. So why not work with the professionals? If you work with an IT support company, you’ll have access to the latest, most comprehensive security defense solutions. That means you’ll be able to work on growing your company, all the while knowing that your important documents, information, and network are in safe hands.

Keep Smartphones and Tablets Secure

Remember, it’s not just your work computers that you need to worry about. There’s also the matter of your personal smartphones and tablets, which usually hold much information about you and your company. Indeed, if you have work emails on your phone, then a thief would have all the information they need, right there! Keep your phone secure, and try to limit any work-related information on there.

Finally, remember that there’s no substitute for common sense. If a link looks fishy, then don’t click it; if something sounds unusual, then don’t pursue it. Stay smart, and your business will be safe.

You might also like to read:

• The dangerous cybercrimes of the new business age
• How to protect your business online
• 4 Safety Tips For Going Back To The Office
• Unique solutions to protect your business in the digital age
• How To Do More In The Office In The Same Time