Watch this video to learn some cybersecurity basics and learn how to put them into practice in your small business.
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Transcription:
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Cyber criminals attack companies of all sizes. To reduce your risk, know and practice some cybersecurity basics. Start with your devices. Use strong passwords for all your devices-- at least 12 characters with a mix of numbers, symbols, and both capital and lower-case letters.
And set all your software to update automatically. This includes apps, web browsers, and operating systems. Next, backup your important files offline, like in the cloud or on an external hard drive.
If your devices contain sensitive personal information, make sure they're encrypted. And require multi-factor authentication to access areas of your network with sensitive information. This could be a temporary code on a smartphone or a key that's inserted into a computer.
Also, think about how you connect to the network. Secure your router by changing its default name and password, turning off remote management, and then logging out as the administrator. Make sure your router is using WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, which protects information sent over your network so it can't be read by outsiders.
Cybersecurity should be part of your business routine. Talk about cyber basics with your staff, and have a plan in case you are attacked. Learn more FTC.gov/smallbusiness.
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The Federal Trade Commission deals with issues that touch the economic life of every American. It is the only federal agency with both consumer protection and competition jurisdiction in broad sectors of the economy. The FTC pursues vigorous and effective law enforcement; advances consumers' interests by sharing its expertise with federal and state legislatures and U.S. and international government agencies; develops policy and research tools through hearings, workshops, and conferences; and creates practical and plain-language educational programs for consumers and businesses in a global marketplace with constantly changing technologies.
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