The report also found that the most common type of cyber-attack against small businesses is viruses and malware, followed by phishing, social engineering, and denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.If you’re running an online business, make sure you’re taking steps to protect your website and your customer’s data. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Use a Secure Web Host:
The first step in protecting your website is to choose a secure web host. A secure web host will provide you with a secure server, secure website, and secure email. Look for a web host that offers SSL certificates and secure website hosting. SSL certificates encrypt data that is exchanged between your website and your visitors’ web browsers. This helps to protect your customers’ personal and financial information from being intercepted by hackers.
- 2. Keep Your Software Up-to-Date:
One of the easiest ways for hackers to gain access to your website is through outdated software. Outdated software often contains security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers. Make sure you keep your website’s software up-to-date. This includes your content management system (CMS), your plugins, and your themes. Check out https://security-mps.com/mps-security-would-like-your-ep-business-heres-why/ this website.
- Use a Secure Password:
Another easy way for hackers to gain access to your website is through weak passwords. A strong password should be at least 8 characters long and should include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Never use the same password for multiple accounts. If a hacker gains access to one of your accounts, they will then have access to all of your accounts.
- Use Two-Factor Authentication:
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security that can be added to your website. With 2FA, you will need to enter your password and a second form of identification, such as a security code, before you can log in to your account. Two-factor authentication helps to protect your website from brute force attacks, where hackers try to guess your password. It also helps to protect your website if your password is compromised in a data breach.
- Back Up Your Website Regularly:
If your website is hacked, you will need to restore your website from a backup. That’s why it’s important to back up your website regularly. Most web hosts offer automatic backups, but you should also create your own backups. Store your backups off-site in a secure location, such as an external hard drive or a cloud storage service.
- Use a Web Application Firewall:
A web application firewall (WAF) is a security tool that helps to protect your website from malicious traffic. A WAF can block malicious requests before they reach your website. Most web hosts offer WAF protection as an add-on service. If your web host doesn’t offer WAF protection, you can install a WAF plugin on your website.
- Monitor Your Website for Suspicious Activity:
Monitor your website for any suspicious activity, such as unusual login attempts, new user accounts, and changes to your website’s files. These could be signs that your website has been hacked.
Conclusion:
If you’re running an online business, you need to take steps to protect your website from hackers. Use a secure web host, keep your software up-to-date, and use a strong password.