7 Ways To Prevent Identity Theft At Your Company

7 Ways To Prevent Identity Theft At Your Company

According to the National Council on Identity Theft, every 22 seconds, an identity is stolen. Cybercrime isn’t limited to individuals. Entire companies can suffer data breaches that compromise the identities of employees and clients. Taking proactive steps to minimize the threat might be easier than you think. Here are seven ways to stop identity theft from crippling your enterprise. 

1. Prioritize Data Monitoring

Data is the ultimate target for any cyberattack. Whether personal information is stored on-site or backed up in the cloud, vulnerabilities remain. Many companies purchase managed detection and response (MDR) services to keep a watchful eye on their data. Data monitoring can be accomplished remotely or through dedicated security tools. Typically, both are employed together to make cybersecurity comprehensive. Learn your needs and find your solution.

2. Incorporate Zero Trust Security Protocols

In many ways, data monitoring is just one segment of a broader cybersecurity strategy called “zero trust.” Zero trust security means taking no chances with new users on your network. Anyone accessing your company’s network should undergo a rigorous verification process. Access should be limited to the minimum necessary to do their appointed job. Multifactor authentication methods like security tokens should also be used to verify legitimate users. Attacks can come from anywhere, so defend everywhere.

3. Encrypt All Data

Encryption is yet another ring of defense to place around any sensitive data. The good news is that some operating systems (like Windows) come with built-in hard drive encryption options. Even better, USB drives are often equipped with several layers of security, including encryption and biometric locking. Don’t forget to encrypt data in transit with telecom services that feature end-to-end encryption, if possible.

4. Strengthen Passwords

Speaking of encryption and verification, the simple act of making stronger passwords can have a massive impact on the security of your data and that of your clients. There’s a unique science to creating strong passwords. Combining numbers, letters, and symbols in random patterns makes the code progressively harder for cybercriminals to break. Never use a personal fact about yourself as a password! If a criminal knows one fact about you, they might leverage it to gain more information.

5. Avoid Unsecure Connections

With so many workers continuing to operate remotely, the lure of complimentary Wi-Fi attracts many teams on the go. Caution must be taken. Free connections are often left unsecured, and unsecured Wi-Fi can expose data for anyone on the same network to access. Insist that your remote workers adhere to a strict policy of password protection at all public hotspots. Also, enforce compliance with a common set of endpoint security measures. In other words, ensure everyone is serious about cybersecurity and deploying countermeasures like password protection and antivirus software on their business-related devices. 

6. Foil Dumpster Divers

The trash can is another lucrative source of data for identity thieves. So-called “dumpster divers” will look for items like computer manuals, discarded checks, and passcodes written on Post-it Notes. Shred any vital documents before disposing of them. This includes paperwork like receipts and invoices. The information might not seem confidential, but it can be used to slowly build knowledge of your company’s inner workings. Keep security cameras trained on your disposal sites if you can, and prioritize training employees in effective security policies.

7. Never Overshare

Social media is a common vector for identity theft. With many companies engaging in marketing through social media, information about a brand is easy to find. Sometimes, it’s too easy. For example, a poorly-staged photo might show a computer screen with sensitive information in the background. Sharing a personal phone number instead of a business line can open the door to scammers. Make your privacy settings strict enough to avoid putting employees and clients at undue risk, and always think before posting a photo. 

Data breaches resulting in identity theft can be devastating, but actively taking preventative measures can keep your company from becoming a statistic. Remember these strategies when formulating your company’s identity theft prevention plan. You can also visit here Now https://animixplaynews.com