With an increasing number of businesses integrating the internet into daily practices, it’s important that we all pay closer attention to the ongoing risk of cybersecurity threats. Modern key management systems are no exception. While the ability to pull reports instantly online via mobile devices makes our buildings and communities safer overall, the fact remains that any online connectivity comes with some risk of hacking. What can you do to keep your data and online activities safe in an age of ongoing cybersecurity threats?
Secure Your System
Regardless of how your company’s online network is configured, make sure it’s running on a secure system. Use firewalls and encrypting to secure your internet connections and your servers. If you use WiFi, make sure it’s hidden and protected by a strong password — and change the password frequently. Only grant network access to authorized personnel.
Require Strong Passwords for Employee Logins
Employees who log into the system should each have an individual login with a strong password that is difficult to guess. Employees should also be prompted to change passwords regularly.
Use Caution with Remote Access
If you log into your company’s network offsite using a smartphone or other mobile device, remember that you aren’t necessarily accessing the system using a secure server. Don’t log in using public WiFi, for example — or if you do, log in using a virtual private network (VPN) to hide from hackers.
Scan for Viruses, Spyware and Malware
You should have a strong antivirus, anti-spyware program in place to guard your system, and make sure it receives the latest updates to make sure newer viruses can be detected and eradicated from the system.
Run Updates on All Software
It’s a pain to keep up with software updates, but when developers send these to you, they’re usually dealing with newly discovered cybersecurity threats. Always keep operating systems and other software up to date.
Back Up Your System
You should be running full backups regularly of your entire system, from shared drives to individual computers. That way, if a hacker crashes your system, you won’t lose data and you can restore at least most of your functionality.
Use Multi-Step Logins Whenever Possible
You don’t want to spend all day logging in, but in truth, the more steps to the login process, the safer it is. With HandyTrac key control, for example, our systems are designed for employees accessing key boxes to take several steps to verify their identity. Some units even include biometric (fingerprint) identification which provides excellent security against intruders and hackers.
To learn more about our secure key control systems, contact HandyTrac today!
