Importance of Data Protection for Small Businesses

Small businesses face the same basic data protection challenges as large businesses. The dangers and potential costs of unprotected data can easily be as catastrophic for a small firm as they are for a large one. Unfortunately, there are far fewer resources available to small businesses to address the problem than there are for larger businesses.
Importance of Data Protection As information changes hands numerous times each day through the use of file transfers, downloads, email, etc., data can also be transferred unknowingly to others. In instances of the sale of used computers or stolen laptops, a large amount of confidential information can be lost, thereby putting many at risk. Data protection is needed to protect systems from viruses or cyber attacks, as it ensures that even if it does get into the wrong hands, it will be secure.

The main forms of data protection solutions available are anti virus software, firewalls, data encryption, etc., and there may be a necessity to invest in additional security software if the data is very sensitive. With just basic protection, data can be easily protected from anyone who might obtain it by accident. However, in the case of hackers or identity thieves, there is a large risk of data being misused. The loss or breach of data, especially the personal data of customers and clients, can result in fines. If the company deals in this type of data, there must be adequate care taken to see that it is fully protected within federal and state guidelines.
How to ensure data protection Almost 21 percent of small business employees think that the IT department could do a better job of protecting them from the impending risks connected with data-stealing malware. In addition to that, around 35 percent of employees in small companies indicated that the IT department could have done a better job of educating them about data-stealing malware. To prevent data loss, it is recommended that small businesses train employees about the importance of data, the risks of data loss and how to prevent it. The training needs to be done periodically to ensure its effectiveness.
To reduce the risk of data loss, small businesses can also use technical solutions. One step to curb data loss is to make sure that the operating system and applications do not have vulnerabilities. If any are detected, they need to be addressed in a timely manner. Due to tight IT security budgets, small businesses need to look for security products that combine anti-virus, anti malware and data loss prevention.
The biggest risk group for data loss are businesses who have small LAN setups and standalone computers as many small businesses do not have the exchange backup or procedures in place to create regular backups. Contrary to popular belief backups do not cost time or money. And by ensuring that data at your company is backed up consistently and protected from theft or loss, you can save your business from potential predicaments in the future.