Technology has never been this dynamic; but large corporations, small businesses, startups, or even government agencies aren’t safe from the threat of hackers (if only they’d use their powers for good instead of evil).  

Unlike larger corporate entities, small businesses have one primary weakness–inadequate cyber security–which makes them vulnerable to even the simplest of threats. Yet according to a CNBC/SurveyMonkey Small Business Survey, only 2 percent of small businesses across a variety of industries viewed the threat of a cyber-attack as the most critical issue they face. But the truth is with all the other expenses small business owners face, cyberspace security is easy to push aside–until you get hacked. 

When thinking of how to improve cyber security without spending money, it is imperative to setup your company’s daily online best practices. Here are 3 tips that can help your business steer clear of online predators: 

1. Keep a layered approach in your cyber security processes. Daily ongoing tests for possible vulnerabilities as well as infiltration of hackers must be done. You can install current security software that performs routine checks on certain spikes in web traffic as well as block any log ins from portals outside the company. Real time authentication of online activities by device and data feeds from known fraud sites must be in place. All of these MUST be completed on a daily basis, either manually by you or electronically by your security software. 

1. Be in control. Administrator privileges must be continually managed by a focused group in your company. Access and utilization of the company’s pages via personal devices must also be limited to prevent unguarded penetration from the outside. By picking reliable people to serve as admins, you can minimize data loss or data corruption.  

1. Have a cyber insurance policy that’s tailored to your small business needs. There is no one-size-fits-all policy hence, the need to carefully outline what type of protection your business needs in terms of securing credit card information, customer directory, and other sensitive data. Remember, cyber risks are not covered by general liability insurance. 

Cyber security is a growing concern no matter what size the business. Small enterprises, however, must take necessary actions to ensure their safety and that of their customers. When done diligently, the steps listed above are only the first line of defense against hackers. In the end, an antivirus protection program can best help keep your business safe online. Check out The Best Antivirus Protection of 2018 at PCMag.org for more information. 

What steps has your business taken to keep hackers at bay? SiMar Inc. can help improve your online security strategy! To give you an idea on how to transform your life and business, check out Allison Todd and her business portfolio at www.simarinc.com or schedule a 15-minute initial consultation today! 

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SiMar Makes Automation Simple! 

Technology continues to WOW us at SiMar, as its constant evolution has paved the way for advanced automation.

If you started a business in 2017–or planned to and are still working out the details–  it’s important to be ready for new tech ideas that can help propel you to success in 2018! 

Our upcoming blog on Gearing for a Tech Savvy Small Business will cover this in more detail but in the meantime, here are a few major business trends that owners and consumers alike cannot ignore: 

Business On-Demand: Without a doubt, this is the era of everything on-demand. People are dependent on phone apps for most everything they do. From taxi rides to shopping, travel, entertainment, and more, the tech industry will be even more accommodating in 2018. Which leads to . . .  

Digital Consumerism. Brick and mortar retail is declining at a steady pace. As more people prefer shopping online, businesses will be left with no choice but to jump into the digitalization of consumerism. With this, the need for businesses to learn the highly aggressive and volatile nature of digital media must be carefully studied and implemented. Check out some startup possibilities in this week’s blog, Top Online Business Ideas For 2018. 

Business Analytics. The ways that information is gathered and communicated globally is evolving. New developments are constantly being pursued by experts to find gadgets that not only fit in your pockets or purse, but also deliver astounding solutions to make our lives easier. And how are our needs being determined, you ask? Using the same technology that tracks the way you spend, how/where you like to spend, and all things information. In 2018, most software programs handling econometrics, auditing, financial analyses, operations, marketing research, and feasibility studies will become more refined. 

Digital Security. One of the biggest occupational hazards in business is digital security, and there will be an even greater need in 2018. Security issues have permeated the wireless sector, manufacturing and automation, data management, and other cutting-edge business arenas. Any business using digital media in its overall operations will need to tighten its cybersecurity skills. This week’s blog, Small Business Tips to Ramp Up Cyber Security, will help you get a handle on some DIY tasks that can keep your business safe online. 

Without a doubt, tech trends are being designed to address consumers and cater to the core needs of businesses across industries. The tech industry will be even more aggressive in 2018, so entrepreneurs and career-driven individuals alike must be ready. 

Want to learn how your business can take advantage of the latest tech trends? SiMar Inc., Atlanta’s premier business consultancy, and digital media management firm, offers comprehensive digital marketing and management services. Call Allison Todd for a consultation now!