While it’s never been easier to launch a new business venture, there remain some inherent risks. Some of those risks are the same issues that have faced entrepreneurs for centuries, but there are new threats that are unique to the digital age. Cybercrime is a very real issue, and business of all sizes and sectors are potential victims.
Launching a startup means wearing many hats, but protecting your business idea from day one should be a priority. Here are some of the main threats facing startups and what you can be doing to reduce your chances of remaining vulnerable to those that want to exploit your online weaknesses.
Phishing Fears.
Keeping up to date with the latest phishing scams is always a smart move, but might be worthless if you’re the only one doing so. If your team aren’t aware of how sophisticated phishing has become, your startup is going to be vulnerable from the launch. Emails sent from deceptively professional looking and industry relevant accounts are very tempting to click on, and nobody is immune. As well as ensuring that your team is aware of current phishing tactics, you should also consider adopting multi-factor authentication on accounts and devices. This will protect you and your business very effectively and adds an extra layer of security to your startup.
Start Right.
If you have a security mentality from the get-go, then you’ll be able to build your startup around your security protocols, which will leave you in a much safer position. Online security is vital, and a mentality of patching issues as they arise will leave you exposed to threats. If you start as you mean to go on, you will develop much stronger defenses. One way to ensure that you achieve this is to look at using container security, which compartmentalizes your apps, software, and hardware so that access is limited. The advice offered by StackRox will mean that your startup has a deep, extra layer of protection across the board. If you haven’t yet implemented container security, it’s never too late to start.
Device Concerns.
The smartphone is a valuable business tool and makes it easier to work on the go, stay in contact with customers or suppliers, and get regular updates from your team. They are also incredibly vulnerable, especially with the rise of the bring-your-own-device mentality in the modern workplace. Lost or stolen devices can leave your business very exposed to theft, malware, or ransomware. Make it a priority and company policy that devices need to have a pin code or password unlock, and that the storage on the devices that are used by your team is encrypted. This will make it much harder for hackers and thieves to gain access to your account details, even if they have managed to get your phone.
No matter what sector your startup is entering, security should never be far from your mind. Make it a part of your daily diary to get news updates about new threats, and speak to professionals about what more you might be doing. Include security measures on your initial business plan, and you’ll be creating a company culture and mentality that is ideally placed to keep you and those around you safer from online threats.
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