Top 5 Easy Cybersecurity Steps for Small Businesses and Charities
Cybersecurity threats are a growing concern for small businesses and charities, which often lack the resources of larger organizations to defend against attacks. Hackers target smaller entities, knowing they may have weaker protections. The good news? You don't need a big budget or a dedicated IT team to significantly improve your organization's security. Here are the top 5 easiest steps you can take to protect your small business or charity from cyber threats.
1. Enforce Strong Password Policies
Weak passwords are an open door for cybercriminals. Many breaches occur because of easily guessed or reused passwords.
Action: Require employees to use strong, unique passwords (at least 12 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols). Use a password manager to securely store and generate complex passwords.
Why It Works: Strong passwords make it harder for hackers to gain unauthorized access. Password managers reduce the risk of password reuse across accounts.
How to Start: Choose a reputable password manager like LastPass or 1Password for your team. Set a policy requiring password updates every 6–12 months.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification beyond a password.
Action: Enable 2FA on all critical accounts, such as email, banking, and cloud services like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365.
Why It Works: Even if a password is compromised, 2FA (e.g., a code sent to a phone or email) prevents unauthorized access.
How to Start: Check the security settings of your accounts and enable 2FA. Use authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy for better security than SMS-based 2FA.
3. Keep Software and Systems Updated
Outdated software is a common entry point for cyberattacks, as hackers exploit known vulnerabilities in old versions.
Action: Regularly update operating systems, applications, and antivirus software on all devices used for work.
Why It Works: Updates patch security holes, reducing the risk of exploitation. Antivirus software helps detect and block malware.
How to Start: Enable automatic updates on devices and software. Schedule a monthly check to ensure all systems are current.
4. Train Employees on Phishing Awareness
Phishing emails and scams trick employees into sharing sensitive information or clicking malicious links, often leading to data breaches.
Action: Conduct basic training to help employees recognize phishing attempts, such as suspicious links, urgent requests, or unfamiliar senders.
Why It Works: Educated employees are less likely to fall for scams, reducing the risk of compromised accounts or systems.
How to Start: Use free resources from organizations like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) or run a short training session using real-world phishing examples.
5. Backup Data Regularly
Ransomware attacks, which lock your data until a ransom is paid, can cripple a small organization. Regular backups ensure you can recover without paying.
Action: Back up critical data (e.g., financial records, customer information) to a secure, offline, or cloud-based location at least weekly.
Why It Works: Backups allow you to restore data without relying on hackers, minimizing downtime and financial loss.
How to Start: Use cloud services like Google Drive or external hard drives for backups. Test your backups periodically to ensure they're accessible.
Cybersecurity doesn't have to be overwhelming for small businesses and charities. By implementing these five simple steps—strong passwords, 2FA, software updates, phishing training, and regular backups—you can significantly reduce your risk of a cyberattack. Start with one step today and gradually build a culture of security within your organization. Your data, customers, and reputation are worth protecting!
For more resources, check out CISA's Small Business Cybersecurity Guide or StaySafeOnline.org for free tools and training materials.