SmallBizResource Blog -- Business Know-How

7 Smart Security Practices For Small Businesses

Courtesy of Business Know-How Friday, Apr 24, 2009, 01:27 PM ET

The Defense Department reports spending more than $100 million in the past six months responding to cyberattacks and repairing the damage caused by intrusions to the military's networks. But DoD systems are not the only ones at risk.

Hackers, in fact, routinely penetrate businesses small and large, stealing data for fun and profit. But given how many small-business owners generally lack the technology and technical ability of the Defense Department's cybercops, what can a small business do?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers a hand via its OnGuardOnline program, which it began in partnership with cybersecurity experts, online marketers, consumer advocates, and federal officials in 2005.

The Web site offers practical tips, articles, videos, interactive activities, games, and free, downloadable material that will help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.

OnGuardOnline offers solid advice on such topics as:

• How to recognize Internet scams
  
• How to shop and conduct business securely online
  
• How to avoid hackers and viruses
  
• How to deal with spam, spyware, and phishing

The site also offers the following seven vital security practices:

1. Protect your personal information. It's valuable.
2. Know who you're dealing with.
3. Use security software that updates automatically.
4. Keep your operating system and Web browser up-to-date and learn about their security features.
5. Keep your passwords safe, secure and strong.
6. Back up important files.
7. Learn what to do in an "e–mergency."

If you suspect Internet fraud, then you can register a complaint using this form. The FTC enters Internet, telemarketing, identity theft, and other fraud-related complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database used by law enforcement officials in the U.S. and overseas.

Small business owners, like Air Force generals, should be concerned about the wide range of computer attacks -- and they should take steps to prevent them.

-- Paul Davis is a writer who covers crime and security.

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