April 12, 2022
According to a Hiscox Cyber Readiness Report, 43% of small businesses experienced a cyberattack in 2022; some businesses experienced multiple or repeated attacks.
Most of the attacked businesses went out of business within six months. What does that tell you? It should communicate what happens when enterprises fail to prioritise security.
Businesses, especially those with operations in the security sector, should adopt sophisticated software solutions to protect sensitive data and streamline operations and safety protocols. Adopting the right software and effectively integrating security technology into the workflow can allow businesses to boost security and enhance overall operational flow.
This article will focus on six core steps businesses can take to enhance security with software. But wait, isn't simple security enough? Why should businesses go the extra mile?
"But my business has a security system. How could I still get hacked?"
Unfortunately, having a security system alone doesn't guarantee immunity to cyber threats. Since hackers are clever, they constantly improve their methods to exploit new vulnerabilities as technology advances.
Without regular threat vulnerability and response protocol reviews and updates, even the most robust system can be child's play to skilled cybercriminals. Take the case of Verkada, a security technology company that prides itself on providing state-of-the-art surveillance systems.
In 2021, Verkada suffered a significant data breach despite being a leader in the security space. Hackers accessed live feeds from thousands of security cameras. Because the breach went unnoticed for several days, the business incurred significant leaks. That is why all businesses need robust software solutions that continuously monitor, analyse and improve their security posture.
Fortunately, comprehensive security tools from boldgroup.com and other solution providers now offer advanced alarm monitoring software and business tools specifically designed to promote organisational security. Such platforms and SaaS solutions enhance operational security and client protection and help ensure businesses can respond swiftly to potential threats and manage risks more effectively.
Now, let's discuss those six steps.
Like most things, software solutions and tools that suit one company might not work for another because businesses have different needs. So first, assess your business's current security setup.
Consider areas where your business may be most vulnerable, whether it's data protection, physical security, or alarm monitoring. Understanding these needs will allow you to choose software solutions that address your most pressing security challenges.
For businesses in the healthcare sector, that could mean focusing on encrypted electronic health records (EHR) software that safeguards patient data protection rights or systems designed to maintain HIPAA compliance.
Software solutions can be a huge investment. But can you really put a price tag on your business's security? As your business grows, so do your security requirements. So, invest in scalable software that can accommodate future growth and more complex security demands.
Choose a solution that can accommodate changes like adding new locations, a bigger team, or an increased volume of sensitive data. Considering this allows you to scale your operations without compromising security. Many modern security software solutions offer cloud-based options and tools that simplify scaling without requiring significant hardware upgrades.
Integrating your security system maximises its effectiveness across all security channels. Integration includes connecting your alarm monitoring system with video surveillance, access control systems, and employee management software.
Creating a centralised system where all security tools can communicate with one another provides real-time updates and can streamline your security processes. For example, when the system detects a security breach, it could automatically lock doors, alert employees, and trigger a notification to security personnel. Integration ensures a more coordinated and faster response to security threats.
Over the years, human error has been the leading cause of most security breaches, but what if we could completely remove humans from that equation? How? By using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation for threat detection.
AI-powered systems can analyse patterns, detect anomalies, and automatically alert you to potential security risks, often before they become actual threats. This keeps businesses one step ahead and prevents incidents from escalating.
Automation can also streamline routine security tasks such as monitoring access logs, reviewing surveillance footage, or conducting regular security assessments. By automating these tasks, businesses can focus their efforts on more critical security matters while minimising the chances of human error.
Since most major businesses now work digitally or in the cloud, data breaches are a major business concern. That's why every business should keep its data encrypted and backed up regularly. The right security software should have robust data encryption features that sufficiently protect sensitive information from cyber threats.
Moreover, regular data backups help ensure your business won't lose crucial data in the event of a system failure or cyberattack. With comprehensive data protection, businesses can continue operating smoothly without the towering risk of losing valuable information.
Once you implement your security software solution, the work doesn't stop. You should also perform regular security audits and updates to ensure your system remains effective against evolving threats.
Security software providers often release updates to fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and introduce new features. With your software up to date, you can always stay ahead of potential risks. Additionally, performing routine security audits could help you identify gaps in your system and ensure that all aspects of your security infrastructure function as they should.
With these six strategies, you can create a secure foundation that supports growth and innovation.
Take control of your business's security today by exploring comprehensive solutions tailored to your industry and using cutting-edge software to keep your operations secure and efficient. Don't wait for a breach to occur before you act; start fortifying your business now.
