Cybercrime is a daily threat for businesses of every size, including professional offices like dental practices, law firms, and veterinary clinics. The World Economic Forum forecasts the cost of cyberattacks to reach $23.84 trillion by 2027.
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to revisit your habits and boost your defense.
Here are four simple, proven cybersecurity behaviors recommended by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)—and why your office should start using them today.
1. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Adding a second step to logins can stop hackers in their tracks. MFA might use a fingerprint, facial recognition, or a code sent to your phone. Even if someone gets your password, MFA helps keep them out.
Tip:
Never approve unexpected login requests. If something looks suspicious, don’t click or call any number in the message. Go directly to the platform or contact your IT provider.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Weak or repeated passwords are an easy way in for hackers. A strong password should be:
- At least 12 characters
- A mix of upper/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols
- Unique to each login
Example: Instead of Fluffy123, try I_own_Fluffy!_1986
Avoid reusing passwords across sites. If remembering them is hard, consider using a password manager.
3. Keep Software Updated
Those update notifications? They often include security patches to block known threats. Outdated software leaves your devices vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Set your systems to auto-update and only install updates from verified sources. Never trust pop-ups that ask you to download something—they may be phishing scams.
4. Recognize and Report Phishing
Phishing emails or texts trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing private data. Common red flags include:
- Urgent or threatening language
- Generic greetings like “Dear Customer”
- Misspelled sender addresses
- Strange requests for login or payment info
- Unexpected links or attachments
If something looks off, don’t click. Verify the message using a trusted phone number or website. Report suspicious emails to your IT department.
Stay Protected
Cybercrime won’t slow down, but you can stay one step ahead by building smarter habits.
At Professional Insurance Programs, we work with professionals like you every day to help reduce cyber risk—both through education and by offering cyber liability insurance options designed for small business owners.
Want help reviewing your coverage or risk profile? Call us at 800-637-4676 or email info@profinsprog.com.