Business Resources

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
Cybersecurity Best Practices
Remote Workspaces

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.

Small Business Development Center

The Idaho Small Business Development Center provides resources about cybersecurity and the appropriate steps to take to operate more securely. Download their guide with links for free training and more.

Ransomware Attacks

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.

Cyber Toolkit for Small Businesses

The Global Cyber Alliance created this toolkit to help small business owners manage security and privacy challenges. It demystifies the complexities of data security and provides a non-technical roadmap to securing customer and employee data.

Free Cybersecurity Services & Tools

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has curated a database of free cybersecurity services and tools as part of our continuing mission to reduce cybersecurity risk. In addition to offering a range of no-cost CISA-provided cybersecurity services, CISA has compiled a list of free services and tools provided by private and public sector organizations across the cyber community.

Remote Workspaces

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.