Technology is the engine that drives most businesses, but even the most powerful engine can sputter and stall if not properly maintained. A simple slip-up with your technology can quickly turn into a major problem, costing you time, money, and even your reputation.
Here are five common ways businesses can unintentionally sabotage themselves with their tech:
The Laissez-Faire Security Mentality
You installed an antivirus program, set up a firewall, and maybe even implemented two-factor authentication. Unfortunately, the job isn’t done. Cybersecurity is an ongoing battle, not a one-time setup. Failing to regularly update your software, patch vulnerabilities, and train your employees spells doom for your business. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, so your defenses must evolve with them.
Treating Data Backups as an Afterthought
A hardware failure or human error wipes out all your critical business data: Your customer list, financial records, and project files are gone. Poof. This is terrifying, but this scenario is a reality for businesses that don’t prioritize regular, reliable data backups. Having a comprehensive backup and recovery plan isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Your backups should be stored off-site or in the cloud, and you should regularly test your ability to restore the data to ensure it works when you need it most.
Ignoring the Importance of a Strong Password Policy
It’s tempting to use easy-to-remember passwords like your company’s name, your child’s name, or even yours, but this convenience comes at a steep price. Weak passwords are a welcome mat for hackers. A lack of a strong password policy—one that requires complex passwords, regular changes, and discourages password reuse—creates a gaping hole in your security. Encourage your employees to use password managers and enforce a policy that makes it difficult for cybercriminals to guess their way into your systems.
Neglecting Employee Training and Best Practices
Your employees are your first line of defense against cyberthreats, but they can also be your biggest vulnerability. An employee who doesn’t recognize a phishing email, clicks on a suspicious link, or uses public Wi-Fi without a VPN can inadvertently compromise your entire network. Regular, engaging training sessions on cybersecurity best practices, data handling, and company policies are crucial. Equip your team with the knowledge they need, and make sure they know they are partially responsible for your data.
Delaying Upgrades and Relying on Outdated Technology
Using outdated hardware and software might seem like a cost-saving measure, but it’s a false economy. Older systems are often slower, less efficient, and, most importantly, more vulnerable to security threats. When a software vendor stops providing updates and security patches, your business is left exposed. This also applies to hardware. An aging server or a network with a failing router can lead to costly downtime and data loss. Investing in timely upgrades is not just about having the latest and greatest; it’s about ensuring your business operates securely and reliably.
Technology is a powerful tool, but it requires diligent care and attention. At North Central Technologies, we take pride in having the answers to your technology questions, and the resources available to help you get where you want to go. For more information, give us a call today at 978-798-6805.
