Protect your business from cyber threats

Taking your business online can have its benefits, but it can also increase the risk of scams and security threats. Learn how to identify how cyber secure your business is and how to strengthen your business against cyber threats.

1. Learn the basic security measures

The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has steps you can take to protect your business and staff from cyber threats. This includes information on:

turning on multi-factor authentication
securing your accounts
updating software
backing up information
protecting your business data
educating employees.

2. Develop a cyber security policy

A cyber security policy helps your staff to understand their responsibilities and what is acceptable when they use or share:

data
computers and devices
emails
internet sites.

3. Protect your customers

It’s vital that you keep your customers information safe. If you lose or compromise their information it will damage your business reputation, and you could face legal consequences.

Make sure your business:

invests in and provides a secure online environment for transactions
secures any personal customer information that it stores.

If you take payments online, find out what your payment gateway provider can do to prevent online payment fraud.

There are laws about what you can do with any personal information you collect from your customers. Be aware of the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and have a clear, up-to-date privacy policy. If your business is online, it’s a good idea to display your privacy policy on your website.

4. Consider cyber security insurance

Consider cyber insurance to protect your business. The cost of dealing with a cyber-attack can be much more than just repairing databases, strengthening security or replacing laptops. Cyber liability insurance cover can help your business with the costs of recovering from an attack. Like all insurance policies, it is very important your business understands what it is covered for.

5. Stay up-to-date on the latest risks

Keep up with the latest scams and security risks to your business. Sign up for the ACSC Partnership Program for access to up-to-date information on cyber security issues and how to deal with them.

6. Get cyber security advice

Australian Cyber Security Hotline

If you want to talk to someone about cyber security, the ACSC has a 24/7 Cyber Security Hotline.

The hotline provides over the phone support to both prepare for and respond to cyber incidents. Learn more on the ACSC website or call 1300 CYBER1.

The advice provided is general advice only as, in preparing it we did not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs. Before making an investment decision on the basis of this advice, you should consider how appropriate the advice is to your particular investment needs, and objectives. You should also consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before making any decision relating to a financial product.