As Idaho businesses depend increasingly on computer technology and the Internet, it is essential to understand the risks of conducting business online and how you can better protect your operations.
Top Three Ways to Protect Your Business Online
Protect yourself and your customers from identity theft. Handle credit/debit cards and other personal information securely. Do not store this information without appropriately securing it through encryption.
Develop a security and privacy policy. Instruct your employees on how to protect your corporate and customer information. Explain to your customers how you will keep their data private.
Secure your mobile systems at all times. Laptop theft is a growing threat to your business information. Physically secure these systems and consider encrypting sensitive data.
If a small business has IT, does it need cybersecurity?
Not every small business can afford IT support, but yes, every business should have a basic understanding of cybersecurity and methods for protecting their customers’ and companies’ information and assets. Many small businesses opt to have no IT support, instead managing cyber threats without dedicated cybersecurity professionals. Cyber threats such as phishing emails and malware can be avoided by using basic antivirus software and educating employees.
The State of Idaho has officially adopted the Critical Security Controls (CSCs) to improve cybersecurity for state executive agencies. CSCs are an excellent method for implementing cyber defense. Learn more about CSCs here from the Center for Internet Security.
Top Ten Cybersecurity Tips
Train employees in security principles
Protect information, computers, and networks from cyber attacks
Provide firewall security for your Internet connection
Create a mobile device action plan
Make backup copies of important business data and information
Control physical access to your computers and create user accounts for each employee
Secure your Wi-Fi networks
Employ best practices on payment cards
Limit employee access to data and information, limit authority to install software
Passwords and authentication
Cybersecurity Best Practices
Stay Safe Online
Use this site from the National Cybersecurity Alliance to learn about cybersecurity issues, make smart decisions about cybersecurity, and understand how to work with local law enforcement to report an incident. This site contains resources to help businesses understand the need and benefits of securing their networks and computer systems.
Malware is the umbrella term for malicious software enabling unauthorized access to a user’s systems. Ransomware is a subset of malware that demands payment to unlock and decrypt the data, enabling the victim to regain access. Review this information from TechTarget along with recommended steps for safeguarding against ransomware and standard practices for what to do before and after a ransomware attack.
Connecting online for work can happen just about anywhere in the world. Working from home has become much more common. While it is convenient and has benefits, it exposes by workers and organizations to cybersecurity risks. Here are some guidelines from Kapersky to protect yourself digitally while working remotely.
The Office of Information Technology Services (OITS) intends to solicit assistance from the Department of Defense’ Innovative Readiness Training Program. This assistance will include Information Security maturity, resilience, and incident response projects to support the State of Idaho’s cybersecurity needs. This assistance will take place at 11311 W. Chinden Boulevard in Boise, Idaho throughout Federal Fiscal Year Oct 1st – Sept 30th 2025-2026. Contractors, labor unions or private individuals who have questions or who wish to voice opposition to Idaho National Guard assistance for this project may contact Jerred Edgar (cyber@its.idaho.gov) at the Office of Information Technology Services no later than 30 days after the publication of this notice. Persons not filing comments within this timeframe will be considered to have no comments or concerns regarding Idaho National Guard assistance to OITS and this project. ×
