There’s no such thing as being too safe when it comes to data security. But if you’re not sure where to start or what your budget looks like, don’t worry – we’ll show you how to buy data security on a shoestring budget.
How To Buy Data Security On A Shoestring Budget
Some of Feather’s affordable cybersecurity procedures are simple to install and don’t require a lot of money to implement (if anything).
Your Passwords Need to Improve
Your passwords should have been changed from “password” by now. Even if you have a password that you believe to be safe, using the same one across many accounts might lead to problems. Instead, you may spend $15-$40 on a password manager to help you keep track of many strong passwords for various online accounts.
A password manager can help you safeguard your online accounts and avoid password exhaustion, says Feather. “If 12346 is still your password, it’s time to change,” she advises.
Delete Accounts You No Longer Use
When you’re changing the passwords on your online accounts, you could come across ones that you no longer use or don’t serve any purpose for your company. If you don’t think this is a problem, you can just stop logging in and leave it.
Hackers may be able to use the answers you’ve provided to security questions or other information you’ve posted on social networking sites to hurt your business. It’s better to delete or deactivate any accounts you no longer utilize.
It should not cost your company anything to take this step.
Delete or deactivate old and unused accounts that could publicly reveal sensitive information.
Use Two-Factor Authentication.
You can ensure that your data is safer and more secure by needing more than simply a password to log in. In most cases, two-factor authentication requires a user to provide a password before getting a verification code through text or email. In addition, a fingerprint or even a facial scan may be required.
Platforms including Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Twitter provide two-factor authentication as an option. As a result, protecting such accounts shouldn’t cost you anything other than your time.
You may hire a provider to help you implement two-factor authentication on your systems for a few bucks a month.
For further security, Feather recommends using two-factor authentication during login. An account’s security can be greatly improved by simple text-based permission.
Get A Hardware Security Module For Your Servers
When shopping for servers, consider getting ones with a hardware security module (HSM). This extra security layer protects your data even if hackers get into the server and have full control of it. However, these modules add cost to your monthly expenses. They can cost upward of $10 and up per month per server.
To get from $400 to $1200 and beyond, you may spend more money on security measures for your business’ servers. For example, your company’s apps and systems may be protected by an HSM or other secure processor.
Or even better, biometric fingerprint sensors can be used in conjunction with an encryption software like Windows Hello.
If you’re looking to buy new servers, make sure they have a hardware security module installed to secure your data and systems against hackers who manage to gain entry into the server itself.