In our digital age, small businesses are increasingly relying on their online presence to reach customers and drive sales. However, with this increased reliance comes an increased risk of cyber threats. Here’s what every small business owner needs to know about both website and online security.
Table of Contents
1. The Importance of Password Security
The weakest link in any security system is often the human component. It’s alarming to note that some of the most commonly used passwords include “123456” and “Password”1. Such weak passwords make systems vulnerable to breaches. One such method that exposes this weakness can be found in Brute force attacks, which are automated attacks that repeatedly try different password combinations against a user’s email address until they happen upon the right combination. This type of attack isn’t a very successful method if a user’s password is secure, but with common passwords like those mentioned, the attacker will most likely gain access in the first few attempts.
Prioritising password strength is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. Tools like Google Password Manager can assist by generating and storing complex passwords for each website that you have an account and storing it in an encrypted vault. This ensures that even if one password is compromised, an attacker won’t be successful in exposing your other accounts on different websites with the same username and password combination.
For personal devices, this tool integrates seamlessly with biometric features like fingerprint recognition, adding another layer of security. And, as with most Google products, this is associated to your Google account, meaning that your passwords are available where ever you are logged on.
For this reason it’s important to note that on shared computers, it’s essential to always log out after sessions to prevent unauthorised access. Remember, a strong password is the first line of defense against potential cyber threats.
2. Understanding Cyber Threats
While small businesses might not be the primary targets for high-profile attacks like DDoS or MITM, they aren’t immune. However, the more prevalent threats are malware and phishing attacks2. These deceptive techniques can trick users into divulging sensitive information. It’s essential to always scrutinise unexpected emails, especially those requesting personal or financial details. A rule of thumb I often apply is that if an email, text or phone call feel suspicious, then simply ignore it or end the call. If the call may have been important, like your credit card company phoning, then call them back on the official number – this way you know who you are speaking with. Furthermore, if someone really wants to get in touch with you, then will try again or reach out via another method.
In regards to suspicious emails, a quick check of the sender’s email address can often reveal a scam. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, using familiar branding and layouts to deceive users. A common example of this are instances where scammer will purchase a similar looking domain name to one you trust. You know that if you receive an email from @amazon.com that it is most likely legitimate, but look closely as a closer look might reveal that the domain is actually a fake, like @amaazon.com.
Therefore, continuous education and awareness are crucial. Always ensure that your employees are updated on the latest phishing techniques and know how to spot them. Remember when in doubt, simply delete the suspicious email.
3. Steps to Secure Your Website
The platform your website runs on can dictate its security needs. For instance, WordPress, a popular platform, requires strong login credentials and comes with optional 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication). In addition there are many security plugin choices that can be quickly and easily installed to add protection to your site, such as Wordfence or Sucuri. These plugins offer features like real-time monitoring, malware scanning, and firewall protection, providing an additional layer of security.
Regular maintenance to patch potential vulnerabilities in both the platform (such as WordPress) and it’s plugins is highly recommended whatever system you are on. Hackers often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software3. Regular updates ensure that these vulnerabilities are patched, keeping your site safe from known threats. It’s not just about updating the core platform; plugins and themes must also be kept up to date, as they can be potential entry points for malicious actors.
But securing your website doesn’t stop at updates and plugins. Consider implementing HTTPS by installing an SSL certificate, which encrypts data transmitted between the user’s browser and your server. This is particularly crucial if your website handles sensitive information like personal details or payment information.
4. The Role of SSL Certificates
SSL certificates are a visual assurance for visitors that their data is transmitted securely. Represented by a green padlock in browsers, these certificates encrypt data, protecting it from potential eavesdroppers. In an era where data breaches are rampant, having an SSL certificate is no longer optional; it’s a must. It’s a clear signal to your visitors that you take their privacy and security seriously.
While there are various SSL certificate tiers, many hosting packages offer basic SSL for free using Let’s Encrypt or similar free SSL services.
For most small businesses, this basic level of protection is sufficient. It ensures that the data transmitted between the user’s browser and your server is encrypted, making it nearly impossible for anyone to intercept and read.
However, if your website handles sensitive information, such as credit card details, personal identification information, or login credentials, consider investing in a more robust SSL certificate. Extended Validation (EV) SSL certificates, for example, require a more rigorous verification process and provide a higher level of trust. Visitors can see the company’s name in the address bar, further assuring them that they are interacting with a legitimate business.
Moreover, search engines like Google consider SSL as a ranking factor. Having an SSL certificate can positively impact your website’s search engine ranking, making it more visible to potential customers. It’s a win-win situation where you not only enhance your site’s security but also its visibility.
Implementing an SSL certificate is typically a straightforward process, often facilitated by your hosting provider. Many hosts offer one-click installations for free SSL certificates, making it accessible even for those without technical expertise.
5. The Need for Regular Website Updates and Backups
Regularly backing up your website ensures you have a fallback in case of disasters, such as data loss, hacking, or server failures. Consider the frequency of backups based on your site’s activity. More active sites with frequent content changes require more frequent backups, perhaps even daily. Less active sites might be fine with weekly or monthly backups. The key is to find a balance that ensures minimal data loss without overburdening your storage resources.
Diversifying storage locations is also essential. Storing all backups in one place increases vulnerability. If that location is compromised, all your backups could be lost. Consider using a combination of on-site and off-site storage, such as cloud services. This way, even if one location is compromised, you still have access to your backups elsewhere.
Automating the backup process can be a lifesaver. Many hosting providers offer automatic backup solutions, and there are also third-party tools available. Automation ensures that backups are created consistently and reduces the risk of human error.
Websites are software and just like with your Windows or Mac you will occasionally need to install updates. These are handy software patches that bring improvements in usability and performance, or more importantly, they fix bugs and security holes. If you use an off-the-shelf Content Management System (CMS) like Umbraco or WordPress, then you can use the built in updater to more easily perform this task. However, it is always best to get a developer to carry out updates where possible to ensure a smooth and safe update without risking breaking changes.
When thinking about website updates, also bare in mind that sometimes your server will need updating too. Your server will have lots of software installed on it that supports your websites hosting ability. Again, these updates will affect performance and security, so make sure your server host or developer is on top of this.
If you are on a WordPress system you should take note of both System updates and Plugin updates. To check on the state of your WordPress system login and head to your Site Health page, usually found at the www.example.com/wp-admin/site-health.php address
6. Multi-Level Login Security
Beyond strong passwords, multi-level security like two-factor authentication (2FA) offers an added layer of protection. With 2FA, even if a password is compromised, unauthorised users would need a second verification method, often a code sent to the user’s mobile device, to gain access. This dual-layer approach significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access, as it requires something the user knows (password) and something the user has (mobile device).
2FA is not just a luxury for large corporations. Given the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks, small businesses should also consider implementing 2FA. It’s a small step that can make a significant difference in your overall security posture. The implementation of 2FA is generally straightforward and often supported by popular platforms and services.
There are different methods of 2FA, ranging from SMS codes sent to mobile devices to authentication apps like Google Authenticator. Some methods, such as hardware tokens, provide even higher security levels. Choosing the right method depends on your specific needs, the sensitivity of the information you’re protecting, and the technical capabilities of your users.
Educating users about the importance of 2FA and how to use it is also crucial. Some may find it inconvenient or confusing, especially if they’re not tech-savvy. Clear instructions, support, and emphasising the security benefits can help overcome resistance.
7. The Power of Web Application Firewalls (WAF)
Web Application Firewalls (WAFs), like those offered by Cloudflare, act as gatekeepers, filtering out malicious traffic before it reaches your server. These tools offer a comprehensive security suite, from DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) protection to bot identification. In essence, they act as a protective shield, ensuring your website remains safe and accessible.
The beauty of modern WAFs is their adaptability. They continuously learn from the traffic they filter, becoming more effective over time. This machine learning capability allows them to recognise and adapt to new threats, providing ongoing protection. For small businesses, this means that as cyber threats evolve, your protection does too. Investing in a good WAF is like hiring a 24/7 security guard for your website.
WAFs not only block known malicious traffic but also provide detailed insights into the nature of the attacks. This information can be invaluable in understanding the threats your business faces and tailoring your security measures accordingly. It’s not just about blocking attacks; it’s about learning from them and continually improving your defenses.
Moreover, WAFs can be customised to suit your specific needs. You can set rules to block certain types of traffic, countries, or IP addresses known for malicious activities. This level of control allows you to fine-tune your security, blocking potential threats without affecting legitimate users.
8. Employee Training: The First Line of Defense
Employees play a pivotal role in cybersecurity. They are often the first line of defense against cyber threats, and their actions can either prevent or enable a security breach. Training should emphasise the importance of never sharing passwords and using tools like Google Authenticator for shared access. This ensures that even if one employee’s credentials are compromised, others remain secure.
Additionally, using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) on public networks can encrypt internet traffic, making it more difficult for attackers to intercept sensitive information. Recognising unsecured websites, marked by the absence of a green padlock in the browser, is another essential skill. Employees should be trained to avoid entering personal or financial information on these sites, as it could be easily intercepted.
Continuous training and awareness are key. Cyber threats evolve, and so should your training programs. Regular workshops, simulations, and updates can ensure that your employees remain the first and most effective line of defense against cyber threats. These training sessions should cover a wide range of topics, from basic password hygiene to more advanced topics like phishing detection and secure file sharing.
Have a question about Small Business Website Security?
At Alpha Labs, we understand the importance of safeguarding your online presence. As your trusted security partner, we offer comprehensive security audits, regular backups, and ongoing maintenance services tailored to your business website. With over 15 years of experience, our team is committed to protecting your digital assets and ensuring a secure online experience.
Contact us today to discover how we can enhance your website’s security and give you peace of mind with our hassle-free website service packages.
