Whether you run a small store or a larger commercial enterprise, collecting, using, and protecting data is an essential aspect of success. The information you store on your business's computer network can include everything from trade secrets to sensitive financial documents, and if an unauthorized person accesses these records, you could lose money, time, and credibility. Below is more information about why you should secure your data and how to do so properly.

Why Is Data Security Important?

A single data breach can cost you money, since you must inform any affected customers. This takes a lot of resources, as you must invest in monitoring software to determine the full scope of the breach and then spend time and money contacting each individual affected. After spending this money, you may even need to pay customers back if they lost money due to the issue. 

Customers take breaches seriously when their own financial health is impacted. Even if you're proactive about the issue and mitigate the fallout, the breach can harm your reputation. Current customers might choose to take their business elsewhere, or they may inform friends and colleagues not to patronize your business. This reputational hit can prevent you from getting new customers easily, as they may be reluctant to provide financial information.

How Can You Protect Business Data?

One of the best ways to prevent unauthorized access to your computer network is by training your staff. Make sure all team members are aware of common cyberthreats and how to avoid them, including phishing attacks. These attacks often arrive in the form of an email or direct message, and they contain a suspicious link or file. After clicking on the link or downloading the file, the hacker can gain access to your company's accounts. Teach your staff how to identify potential phishing emails, which usually contain typos or come from a suspicious domain.

Strong passwords also help stop people from breaching your business's accounts. Whenever you create a password for a website or piece of software, make the code longer than 10 characters. Also, use a mixture of numbers, letters, and special characters, and change the password at least once every six months. Similarly, don't use the same password for different accounts and computers. Strong password practices work best with multifactor authentication, which is a security step that sends a code to a separate device before granting access. This prevents someone from accessing an account even if they have the login information.

If you need a reliable computer service to help safeguard your small business's data, contact Cory's Affordable Computer Repair And Services in Ormond Beach, FL. They handle everything from computer virus removal to general repairs and data recovery. They even offer annual maintenance agreements to ensure your network runs smoothly and efficiently. Visit them online for more information about their services, and call (386) 202-2461 to schedule an appointment.