If your website plays a large role as the source of new business and sales for your company isn’t it important to keep it as safe as possible?
Nearly every morning I wake up and listen to another story of yet another malicious attack on customer information online. As a customer it is important to understand the value in creating unique passwords and usernames. It may be convenient to use the same password for everything but just think if a site you have an account on is compromised? All of your accounts are then at risk too.
For businesses, especially those who store login information, it is essential to have security on your to-do list.
There are a number of ways to make sure your business website is as safe and secure as possible.
1. Usernames & Passwords
Choose a username and password that is unique from any other site you have an account on. Don’t use the default “admin” username if you are using WordPress. Same goes for any other platforms that provide you with a default username.
I highly recommend using a password keeper such as 1Password to help you keep track of your accounts and assist you in creating unique passwords. They have a nifty password generation tool you can use so your selections are as unique and obscure as possible.
Avoid sharing your login information via email or writing it on a post-it note and sticking it under your desk. If you have employees, make sure these concerns are communicated to them as well. All it takes is one breach and all of your account information could be a risk.
2. Regular CMS Updates
Updating your website platform on a regular basis can decrease your vulnerabilities to malicious attacks. Your website administrator or developer(s) should have this on their schedule and keep up with open-source platform news. Consider creating a maintenance budget for updates and improving security on your site. It’s often overlooked and not deemed as a necessary line item until after it’s too late.
3. Plug-in Management
Aside from keeping your CMS updated, you also need to consider each individual piece of software that may make up your website. Each component also could lead to vulnerabilities and it’s important to keep each add-on or plugin updated.
The main reason to stay on top of updates is because software developers often include security updates when posting new versions of software. If any issues are reported, the vulnerabilities are generally solved and an update is released so other customers are not prone to the same issues.
The more widely used your CMS is generally the more prone it can be to security issues. Companies like WordPress take security very seriously and are always improving their product to keep your business safe online.
4. Personal Computer Vulnerabilities
If you are using a computer that isn’t be scanned for harmful files on a regular basis consider getting setup with virus protection. Using an infected computer to access your business website can open the door to attackers and a host of other problems.
5. Selecting a Reputable Hosting Company
Where you host your website is just as important as the website itself. If you’re on a shared web server that is compromised you may also be vulnerable simply because you share the same server with them.
Do your research when it comes to selecting a host. Ask around and get personal recommendations. Talk to the company directly and ask them about security. If they can’t give you a list of the things they do to keep their server’s safe then walk away immediately.
6. Network Connections
So you’ve decided to work from your favorite coffee shop one morning. The wi-fi connection you are using may not be encrypted. Always make sure when you are using a public wi-fi connection that you are running a firewall on your computer. If you’re not sure, you may want to check your settings.
Avoid logging into secure websites when using a public network. If your website does contain secure information, only login when you are on a secured wi-fi or direct connection at home or work.
