How can you protect your small business from data breaches?

In my experience gained from working with local small businesses in South Africa I've identified a common gap across most businesses which relates to lack of knowledge of what data is collected, how it's collected, stored, used and managed. This gap is followed by the lack of knowledge of the respective data protection laws. My recommendation to small businesses is to define their data strategy as this involves defining how they collect data, store, process, analyse, and use it to inform decision-making. This also includes considerations for data governance, quality, security, integration & data lifecycle management. Another recommendation is to understand the data protection laws specific to their sector in order to ensure compliance.

Implement Strong Security Protocols Use Secure Networks Regular Software Updates Data Encryption Employee Training and Awareness Security Training Create a Security Policy Access Control

In general, the goal should be collecting the minimum possible identifying information. Clearly communicate privacy policies to customers and obtain consent BEFORE collecting and using personal information.

To minimize the risk of data breaches, it's crucial to simplify online account logins by eliminating the use of passwords. Instead, a robust authentication solution like FIDO2 (Fast Identity Online) should be adopted. FIDO2 technology allows for quick verification using facial recognition, voice, or fingerprints, eliminating the need for password entry. This technology is currently widely used by major technology corporations (as shown in the image). FIDO2 technology helps: -Limit 99.9% of network attacks involving intrusion and password cracking. -Reduce operational costs by 1/4. -Reduce login time by up to 78%. -Increase digital conversion rates in businesses by 21%.

Small businesses are vulnerable to data breaches for these key reasons: Small businesses tend to think they are too small to be a target. Nearly 87% of small business owners believe they are not at risk for a data breach. Small businesses often lack the time, resources, and know-how to implement measures to protect themselves. The following are some best practices to protect your business from a data breach: Install and maintain anti-virus software that can protect your business systems from viruses and malware. Regularly update all software, including applications, browsers, and operating systems. Create a regular data backup routine to reduce the vulnerability of your business to ransomware attacks.

-Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure remote access. -Limit access to sensitive data to only those employees who need it. -Use strong authentication methods, like two-factor authentication. -Restrict physical access to servers and other sensitive equipment. -Keep devices in secure locations, especially if they contain sensitive data.

-Stay informed about regulations especially involving tools that are less established, such as AI. -Conduct ongoing security training sessions to keep employees informed about the latest threats and preventive measures. -Assess the cybersecurity measures of partners, and ensure they have robust practices to protect shared data. -Consider investing in cybersecurity insurance to mitigate financial risks.

-Test data backup restoration process periodically to ensure data integrity. -Develop and regularly update an incident response plan, and ensure employees know the steps to take in the event of a data breach.

Datenschutz bleibt ein zentrales Anliegen, aber auch teuer! Vor allem bei eigenem Personal. Unternehmen müssen daher das Risiken klug abwägen. Eine behördliche Prüfung erscheint ja eher unwahrscheinlich! Warum sollte die Behörde gerade Ihr Unternehmen wählen? Risiko erstmal gering! Jedoch nehmen Beschwerden von Konkurrenten, ehemaligen Mitarbeitern und Kunden zu. In solchen Fällen MUSS die Behörde prüfen und wenn sie schon mal im Haus ist dann prüft sie gleich ob die Mindestvoraussetzung erfüllt sind. Wie hoch ist nun das Risiko?