Cyber security has never been more critical for organisations, especially now, where threats constantly evolve. At the Data Protection Practitioners’ Conference 2024 (DPPC24), there was more than one session on cyber security, emphasising a powerful reality: cyber incidents are inevitable. It’s not a question of “if” but “when” an incident will occur. This isn’t meant to alarm but underscores the importance of preparation. With the right strategies, organisations can significantly mitigate the damage caused by these incidents and recover faster.
This article will explore key insights from the DPPC24 session and cover practical steps to enhance cyber resilience, from setting up robust incident response plans to implementing simple but effective tools like multi-factor authentication.
Cyber Security in the Spotlight at DPPC24
One of the standout sessions at DPPC24 was titled “Availability – the Forgotten Corner,” led by cybersecurity experts who focused on the often-overlooked components of data availability and system resilience. This session shed light on how every organisation, regardless of size, is a potential target for cyber attacks. Many businesses, tiny and medium enterprises (SMEs), often assume they’re not significant enough to be targeted, but in reality, attackers frequently employ broad tactics that can impact anyone.
The speakers reminded attendees that preparation for cyber incidents should involve everyone within an organisation, from IT professionals to everyday users who access the system. By fostering a proactive approach and building a culture of cyber resilience, organisations can better withstand the impact of an incident.
Essential Cyber Security Strategies from DPPC24
The DPPC24 sessions on cyber security provided a range of actionable insights. Here are some of the top strategies shared by the experts, which any organisation can start implementing and that don’t cost a fortune:
1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent unauthorised access. Traditional passwords can be relatively easy for attackers to crack, especially if employees reuse or choose weak ones. MFA adds a layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity through a second method, such as a text message or authentication app. This makes it significantly more challenging for hackers to breach accounts, even if they manage to obtain passwords. Organisations starting with MFA should consider prioritising high-risk systems and sensitive data first.
2. Vulnerability Management and Patching
Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. This makes regular vulnerability scanning and timely patching essential practices for any organisation. During the session, the presenters emphasised that patch management doesn’t need to be complex or costly. Organisations can close common security gaps by scheduling regular updates and automating vulnerability scans before attackers can exploit them. A robust patch management policy can help ensure that all software remains up-to-date and secure.
3. Password Policies
It may sound logical and obvious, but the more complex the password, the more difficult it is to crack. The NCSC advises using random phrases or three random words to ensure a mix of upper and lower-case numbers and special characters. Where possible, use computer-generated passwords and a password manager.
4. Data Backup and Recovery Plans
Ransomware attacks and data breaches can lead to significant data loss, making a robust backup and recovery plan critical for continuity. Data backups should be kept separate from primary systems, ideally in a secure, encrypted format, so that they are accessible even in the event of a system-wide attack. DPPC24 speakers recommended testing recovery plans periodically to ensure they function as intended. During a crisis, a well-executed recovery plan can minimise downtime and reduce the long-term impact on the business. Organisations should also decide on a minimum viable data set they need to resume operations quickly.
5. Incident Response Plan
Having a documented and well-practised incident response plan is essential for any organisation. This plan should outline containment, eradication, and recovery steps and designate specific roles for team members to avoid confusion during an incident. The DPPC24 speakers highlighted the importance of practising incident response plans through simulated exercises, such as tabletop exercises, to ensure everyone knows their role when an incident happens. By doing so, organisations can identify and address potential gaps in their response plan before a crisis occurs.
Why Preparation is Essential
A powerful message from the DPPC24 session could be: “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” In other words, the best time to prepare for a cyber incident is before it happens. Waiting until an incident can lead to rushed, inefficient responses that increase the likelihood of more significant damage. By investing in preventative measures and training, organisations can reduce the risk of an incident and respond more effectively when it occurs.
One emerging trend mentioned was “double extortion” ransomware attacks, where attackers exfiltrate data before encrypting it, using the threat of public exposure to coerce organisations into paying the ransom. Such sophisticated tactics highlight the importance of a well-rounded incident response plan that addresses containment and communication strategies.
Next Steps for Organisations
If your organisation hasn’t yet developed a comprehensive cyber incident response plan, consider this your call to action. Here are some immediate steps you can take based on insights from DPPC24:
Implement MFA across all critical accounts and systems.
Schedule regular vulnerability scans and patch updates to ensure all software is current.
Set up monitoring and alerting systems to catch suspicious activity early.
Establish a data backup and recovery plan that includes regular testing.
Create and rehearse an incident response plan to prepare your team for the inevitable.
These proactive measures can go a long way in building a culture of resilience and readiness. Remember, a well-prepared organisation is better equipped to handle a cyber incident effectively, protecting its data and reputation.
Stay Tuned for More DPPC24 Insights
This blog is part of our DPPC24 series, where we share key insights from the Data Protection Practitioners’ Conference 2024. In our next post, we’ll discuss the importance of meaningful consent in data privacy practices and explore ways organisations can more effectively engage individuals in their data protection journey.
Small businesses are increasingly at risk from cyber threats. From phishing emails to data breaches, the risk of a cyberattack can feel overwhelming—especially for small business owners who don’t have the resources of a large enterprise. But there’s a powerful tool that can help even the smallest businesses defend themselves: Artificial Intelligence (AI).
AI has been making waves in many industries, but it’s proving to be a game-changer in cyber security. In this blog, we’ll explore how AI can enhance your business’s security efforts and help protect the sensitive data you hold.
Why Cyber Security Matters for Small Businesses
You might think your business is too small to be a target, but the reality is quite different. 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses. Cybercriminals often see small enterprises as easy pickings because they have fewer resources for robust security measures.
The consequences of a data breach or attack can be devastating. Beyond the immediate financial loss, a breach could mean fines for non-compliance with UK GDPR, reputational damage, and the loss of customer trust. So, staying proactive in protecting your business is crucial, and AI is here to help.
How AI Enhances Cyber Security
AI is transforming how businesses approach cyber security, making it more efficient, cost-effective, and responsive. Here’s how AI-driven solutions can benefit small businesses like yours:
1. Automated Threat Detection
Traditionally, detecting cyber threats involved manually scanning systems and logs, a time-consuming task. AI can continuously monitor your systems, identifying unusual patterns or behaviours that might indicate a cyber threat. These algorithms learn from data, improving their accuracy over time. This enables real-time threat detection, helping prevent issues before they cause damage.
For example, AI might flag an employee logging in from an unusual location or spot an increase in data access requests late at night—both potential signs of a breach.
2. Predictive Analytics
One of AI’s most impressive capabilities is predictive analytics, which uses historical data to predict future events. In cyber security, this means anticipating threats before they occur. AI can analyse past attacks across the globe and predict the likelihood of new, emerging threats to your industry or specific business model.
By understanding these patterns, your business can stay ahead of the curve and ensure it’s prepared for the next wave of cyber threats.
3. Faster Response Times
Once a threat is detected, the speed of your response is critical. AI-powered systems can automatically initiate a response—locking down compromised systems, restricting access to sensitive data, or alerting key personnel to take action. This kind of automation can be a lifesaver for small businesses without a dedicated IT team.
4. Enhanced Email Security
Phishing attacks, where cybercriminals trick employees into revealing sensitive information, remain a common threat. AI tools can significantly enhance email security by learning to identify and flag suspicious emails. These tools can scan for warning signs such as unusual links, unknown senders, or strange language patterns that may signal a phishing attempt.
5. Data Encryption and Protection
AI can also strengthen data protection by ensuring encryption practices are followed and alerting you to any vulnerabilities in your system. Data encryption ensures that the stolen data is unreadable to cybercriminals, even if a breach occurs.
The Challenges of AI in Cyber Security
While AI offers powerful benefits, it’s important to remember that it’s not a silver bullet. AI systems are only as good as the data they’re trained on, meaning poorly implemented AI could miss threats or generate false alarms. It’s also worth considering the cost of implementing AI-powered tools. Although some affordable options exist, a well-designed AI system might be a significant investment for a small business.
That said, the growing number of cloud-based security tools available to small businesses is helping to reduce the barrier to entry. These solutions often come with AI capabilities built in, providing an affordable way to improve security without high upfront costs.
How to Implement AI in Your Small Business
AI can be a big leap, especially for small businesses without in-house IT teams. Here are a few practical steps to get started:
Start Small: You don’t need to overhaul your entire security system to use AI. Begin by looking for AI-powered tools that solve specific problems, such as an AI-based email filter to combat phishing or a tool for real-time threat monitoring.
Use Managed Services: Many managed service providers offer AI-powered cyber security as part of their packages. This way, you can outsource the technical aspects to experts while benefiting from cutting-edge technology.
Stay Informed: Cyber threats evolve quickly, as do the AI tools designed to combat them. Stay current on the latest developments in cyber security and AI to ensure your business is always protected.
Q&A: Your Questions on AI and Cyber Security Answered
Q: Do I need to be a tech expert to use AI in my business? A: No, many AI-driven security tools are designed to be user-friendly and don’t require any technical expertise. They often integrate with your existing systems and provide automated protection with minimal input.
Q: Is AI necessary for a small business like mine? A: While AI is not mandatory, it can significantly enhance your business’s cyber security. Cybercriminals often see small businesses as easier targets, so any tool that increases your protection is worth considering.
Q: Can AI guarantee 100% protection from cyber threats? A: Unfortunately, no security system can offer 100% protection. However, AI can significantly reduce risk by providing faster detection, response, and ongoing protection.
Final Thoughts: The Future of AI in CyberSecurity
AI isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of cyber security, offering small businesses an affordable, scalable way to protect their data. While it’s not a perfect solution, it’s undoubtedly a powerful tool in your security toolkit. By embracing AI, you can ensure your business stays one step ahead of cyber threats, allowing you to focus on what matters: growing your business.
Need help getting started with AI-driven cyber security?
Check out these resources for more information on AI and cyber security:
Cybersecurity is often seen as the responsibility of IT departments, but for small businesses, it’s much more than that—it’s a team effort. With the growing risk of cyber threats targeting businesses of all sizes, it’s crucial that every member of your team, from top management to customer support, understands their role in keeping company and customer data safe.
This becomes even more important for micro and small businesses since a data breach can be far more damaging due to limited resources to recover. But don’t worry—with the right cybersecurity training; you can greatly reduce the risk of breaches and ensure your business remains compliant with the UK GDPR and other data protection regulations.
This blog will explore why cybersecurity training is essential, what should be covered, and how to build a training program that protects your business without overwhelming your team.
Why Cybersecurity Training Matters
You might think that cyberattacks only happen to big corporations, but this is a dangerous myth. According to the 2023 Cyber Security Breaches Survey by the UK Government, 32% of businesses identified a cybersecurity attack in the last 12 months—and that includes small businesses!
Why do small businesses get targeted?
Weaker Defences: Small businesses often don’t have the same sophisticated cybersecurity systems as large corporations.
Human Error: Without proper training, employees may unknowingly open phishing emails, use weak passwords, or share sensitive data.
Cybersecurity training helps your team recognise threats and reduces the chances of human error, one of the leading causes of data breaches.
Most importantly, it helps your business meet its legal obligations under the UK GDPR, which requires organisations to implement security measures to protect personal data. Training your team is one of the most effective ways to meet this requirement.
What Should Cybersecurity Training Include?
When creating your cybersecurity training program, it’s essential to cover both basic and advanced topics tailored to the needs of your team. Here’s a breakdown of key areas to focus on:
1. Password Security
What to teach: Strong password creation (using passphrases instead of simple words), the importance of two-factor authentication (2FA), and why passwords should never be shared.
Practical Tip: Encourage the use of password managers, which can generate and store strong passwords securely.
2. Recognising Phishing
to teach you how to spot suspicious emails, avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, and report phishing attempts to your IT department or designated person.
Practical Tip: Use examples of real phishing attempts to show your team what to look out for.
3. Data Handling and Protection
What to teach: How to safely store, share, and dispose of sensitive information. Employees should also understand the importance of encryption and not sharing personal data on unsecured platforms.
Practical Tip: Create a clear data handling policy and ensure everyone knows where and how to store data securely.
4. Device Security
What to teach: How to secure devices used for work, including laptops and mobile phones. Ensure your team understands the importance of keeping devices updated with the latest security patches.
Practical Tip: Set up automatic updates for your team’s devices, which require screen lock features.
5. Remote Working Risks
What to teach: The risks associated with working from public Wi-Fi networks and the importance of using VPNs to secure internet connections when working remotely.
Practical Tip: Provide a simple guide for employees working from home on how to secure their home networks.
6. Incident Reporting
What to teach: Your team should know how to report any suspicious activity or possible breaches immediately. Make sure employees know whom to contact and what the reporting process involves.
Practical Tip: Make reporting easy and encourage a no-blame culture to ensure issues are flagged quickly.
How to Make Training Effective (and Engaging!)
Small business owners often worry that cybersecurity training will take up too much time or be too complicated for their team. However, with the right approach, training can be practical and accessible.
1. Keep It Simple and Focused
Avoid bombarding your team with technical jargon. Instead, focus on practical, easy-to-understand guidance. Short, regular training sessions (10–20 minutes) can be much more effective than long, infrequent ones.
2. Use Real-World Examples
Demonstrating how cyberattacks work with real-life case studies can make the risks more relatable. For example, show your team how a phishing email looks and explain the potential consequences of a breach.
3. Interactive Learning
Interactive quizzes and simulated phishing attacks are a great way to reinforce learning. These methods allow employees to practice recognising threats in the environment.
4. Make It a Continuous Process
Cybersecurity training should be ongoing, not a one-time event. Regular refreshers, updates, and workshops ensure your team stays updated with new threats and regulations.
5. Tailor Training to Roles
While everyone needs to understand the basics, different team members may need more in-depth training based on their roles. For example, those handling sensitive customer data may need extra guidance on data protection principles.
Quick Tips to Get Started
Free Resources: The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) offers a wealth of free resources and training modules designed for small businesses. Consider using their tools to get started with basic training.
Consider Professional Help: If you feel out of your depth, working with a cybersecurity consultant to tailor a training plan for your team could be a wise investment. Many offer packages specifically designed for small businesses.
Encourage a Cyber-Aware Culture: Make cybersecurity part of your company’s culture. Discuss it regularly in team meetings and keep communication open so employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious activity.
Wrap-Up: A Proactive Step Toward Compliance and Protection
Cybersecurity training is not just a best practice—it’s a critical component of your overall data protection strategy. Empowering your team to recognise and respond to threats protects your business and ensures you meet your legal obligations under the UK GDPR and other relevant laws.
Remember, training doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Start small, make it engaging, and most importantly—make it continuous.
Do you have questions about implementing cybersecurity training? Let’s chat! Post your questions below or get in touch for personalised advice on how to make your business cyber-safe.
FAQs
Q: How often should we conduct cybersecurity training?
A: At least once a year, but more frequently if possible. It’s also a good idea to provide refreshers whenever there’s a new threat or significant change in your business operations.
Q: What if my team is remote?
A: Cybersecurity training is even more crucial for remote teams. Ensure they understand the specific risks of remote working and provide tools like VPNs and password managers to help them stay secure.
Cybersecurity risks are one of the most pressing concerns for small businesses today. Whether running an e-commerce store, a consultancy, or a local shop, protecting your business from cyber threats is crucial to maintaining customer trust and avoiding potential legal and financial consequences.
In this blog, the second in our October Cybersecurity Series, we’ll focus on practical steps small businesses can take to manage cybersecurity risks effectively. We’ll break it down in a simple, actionable way to help you stay compliant and secure.
Why Should You Care About Cybersecurity?
Small businesses are often targeted because cybercriminals assume they lack the resources to invest in robust cybersecurity measures. According to the UK government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2023, 38% of small businesses reported experiencing cyberattacks over the past year. This can result in devastating financial losses, data breaches, or reputational damage.
Additionally, the UK’s Data Protection Act (DPA) 2018 and the GDPR require businesses to take appropriate security measures to protect personal data. Failing to manage cybersecurity risks could result in significant fines from the ICO or legal action.
Steps to Manage Cybersecurity Risks
Managing cybersecurity risks doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. Here are five key areas where small businesses should focus their efforts:
1. Understand Your Risks
Start by identifying the specific cyber risks your business faces. This is often referred to as a “risk assessment.” For example:
What kind of data do you store (e.g., customer details, financial data)?
How do you store and process this data (e.g., cloud storage, local servers)?
Who has access to it (e.g., employees, contractors)?
By understanding where your vulnerabilities lie, you can make informed decisions on what needs the most protection.
2. Implement Strong Password Policies
Weak passwords remain one of the easiest ways for hackers to access your systems. Here are a few simple rules:
Use strong, unique passwords that are at least 12 characters long.
Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible, especially for email accounts, CRM systems, and financial applications.
Ensure that passwords are updated regularly, and avoid using the same password across different platforms.
3. Keep Software and Systems Updated
Outdated software is a cyberattack waiting to happen. Ensure all systems, including computers, mobile devices, and cloud platforms, have the latest security patches installed. Many cyberattacks exploit vulnerabilities in outdated systems, so setting automatic updates can save time and reduce risk.
Pro Tip: Enable automatic updates for both operating systems and business-critical applications.
4. Train Your Employees
Your team is your first line of defence. Human error, such as clicking on phishing emails or downloading malicious software, accounts for many cybersecurity incidents. Invest in regular training to educate your staff on:
Recognising phishing attempts.
Securely handling customer data.
Securely using company systems.
Example Scenario: Suppose an employee receives an email that appears to be from your business’s bank. With the right training, they’ll know not to click on any suspicious links or provide sensitive information without verifying the sender.
5. Create a Data Backup Plan
Regular, encrypted backups of your business data are critical to any cybersecurity plan. This ensures that even if your systems are compromised, you can recover data quickly and get your business back on track. Ideally, store backups in a secure, separate location, like an offsite server or cloud-based solution with encryption.
Maintaining Compliance with the Law
Under UK GDPR, your business has a legal obligation to keep personal data secure, which includes implementing technical and organisational measures to manage risks. Not doing so could result in fines from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), which could financially blow small businesses.
To ensure compliance, consider the following:
Privacy by design: Incorporate data protection principles into your business processes from the outset.
Access controls: Limit access to personal data to only those employees who need it for their job roles.
Incident response plan: Prepare a documented process for how you will handle any data breaches or cyber incidents.
Q&A: Your Cybersecurity Questions Answered
Q: I run a small business with just five employees. Do I need to worry about Cybersecurity?
A: Absolutely! Cybercriminals often target smaller businesses precisely because they expect weaker security measures. You can significantly reduce your risks without breaking the bank by implementing simple steps like strong passwords, data backups, and employee training.
Q: Is Cybersecurity expensive for a small business?
A: It doesn’t have to be. Many effective cybersecurity practices are free or low-cost. Enabling automatic software updates, using strong passwords, and training employees on essential cybersecurity awareness are inexpensive yet highly effective.
Q: How often should I conduct a cybersecurity risk assessment?
A: At a minimum, you should conduct a cybersecurity risk assessment annually or when there are major changes to your systems or how you handle data. Regular reviews will help you stay ahead of potential threats.
By taking a proactive approach to managing cybersecurity risks, you’ll protect your business and build trust with your customers—something every small business owner values.
Stay tuned for next week’s blog, where we’ll explore Data Breach Response and Recovery in more detail. In the meantime, you can read our other blogs on the topic.
As a growing business with anywhere from 2 to 50 staff members, you’re probably juggling many responsibilities—cybersecurity may not always feel like a top priority. However, with cyberattacks on the rise and data protection laws such as the UK GDPR requiring strict compliance, securing your business should be at the top of your list. This blog will cover some essential cybersecurity tips for growing businesses and introduce you to a series of blogs designed to help you manage, train, and protect your small business from digital threats.
Why Cybersecurity Matters for Small Businesses
Many small business owners think, “Cybercriminals target big corporations, not businesses like mine.” However, small businesses are often more vulnerable because they may not have the resources for dedicated IT teams or the advanced security tools that larger companies use. Almost half of all cyberattacks target small businesses, and the effects can be devastating—data breaches, financial loss, and damage to your reputation.
Following some straightforward cybersecurity practices can greatly reduce the risk of these incidents and keep your business secure.
1. Stay Up to Date with Software and Security Patches
One of the simplest but most effective ways to protect your business is by updating your software. Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software, so regular updates and patches are crucial. Whether it’s your operating system, antivirus software, or cloud storage, always enable automatic updates to stay protected.
Tip: Consider using a centralised IT management system to help you track updates across all business devices.
2. Implement Strong Access Controls
Controlling who has access to your systems is another key element of cybersecurity. Not all employees need access to sensitive data, so it’s important to establish clear access control policies. Only grant access to individuals who need it, and consider implementing role-based access control (RBAC), which limits what employees can do based on their roles.
For example, junior staff may not need financial or customer data access, while team leaders or managers might.
3. Educate Your Team on Cybersecurity
Your employees are your first line of defence. Without proper training, human error can compromise even the best security systems. Simple training on recognising phishing emails, avoiding malware, and protecting company devices can go a long way in preventing breaches.
If you’re unsure where to start with training, stay tuned for our upcoming blog on “Cybersecurity Training for Your Team,” where we’ll explain exactly what your team needs to know to keep your business safe.
4. Back Up Your Data Regularly
Data loss can happen for various reasons, from cyberattacks to system failures. To ensure your business can quickly recover, make regular backups of important data and store them securely—preferably on-site and in the cloud. Backups should be tested regularly to ensure they can be restored if needed.
The UK GDPR also requires businesses to protect personal data, and having reliable backups is a key part of compliance.
5. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Relying solely on passwords is no longer enough. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors, such as a password and a text message code. This significantly reduces the chances of unauthorised access, even if a password is compromised.
We’ve already written extensively on strong password policies in another blog, which you can check out here. It’s a great read if you want to ensure your team is using the right methods to create and manage passwords securely.
6. Monitor and Respond to Security Threats
Even with the best defences, monitoring potential threats is essential. Consider using tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security monitoring software to monitor your network. If you notice suspicious activity, investigate and mitigate the issue quickly.
Planning for a cyber incident by having a response plan in place can also help you handle threats more efficiently.
What’s Next?
This blog is just the start! In the coming weeks, we’ll explore topics such as managing cybersecurity risks, training your team, and the role of AI in cybersecurity. Each post will provide growing businesses with practical, actionable advice.
Remember to subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest updates and explore some of our other helpful blogs, such as our post on creating strong password policies.
Cybersecurity might seem overwhelming initially, but by taking these basic steps, you’re already on the path to securing your business and protecting your customers’ data. Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay protected!
Summer might be the season for relaxation, but for businesses, it’s also the perfect time to prepare for the busy holiday season just around the corner. With increased sales, customer interactions, and data exchanges happening in the autumn, ensuring your robust data security should be a priority now.
This blog’ll provide a checklist of best practices for securing your business over the summer and ensuring you’re ready for the holiday rush.
Checklist: Data Security Best Practices
1. Audit Data Access
As your business grows, more team members may have access to sensitive data than necessary. Now is the time to thoroughly audit who has access to what information.
Action Points:
Revoke access for staff who no longer need it.
Ensure that only key personnel can access highly sensitive data.
Implement role-based access controls to limit unnecessary access.
2. Update Security Policies
Security policies can easily become outdated, especially with changing regulations and technologies. Take the time this summer to review and update your data protection policies.
Action Points:
Ensure policies are aligned with the latest GDPR guidelines.
Communicate policies to your staff.
Update employee handbooks and training materials to reflect these changes.
3. Test Your Backup and Recovery Plans
Increased business activity generates more data, increasing the risk of data loss or breaches. Ensure your backup systems are working properly and your disaster recovery plan is robust.
Action Points:
Test your backup systems to ensure all critical data is being properly stored.
Review your disaster recovery plan to ensure it can handle increased activity during the holiday season.
Consider a cloud-based backup solution for added security and accessibility.
4. Conduct Training
Your team is critical in data protection, and training is key. Ensure everyone is updated on security best practices and ready for the busy months ahead.
Action Points:
Schedule a data security refresher course before the holiday season starts.
Emphasise key areas like phishing, password security, and device management.
Provide resources like quick guides or videos that team members can review.
5. Review Third-Party Risk Management
If your business relies on third-party vendors, such as payment processors or shipping companies, make sure they follow data protection best practices.
Action Points:
Review vendor contracts to ensure they include data protection clauses.
Ask vendors for their security policies and procedures.
Consider conducting a security audit of your key third-party vendors.
Conclusion
Addressing these areas during the summer will set you up for success in the autumn and winter. By ensuring your data security is solid, you can focus on growing your business, knowing you’re prepared for whatever the busy holiday season throws.
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