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Hackers have become a big security threat to everyone, including small businesses. Many business owners think their websites or businesses are too small for hackers. But hackers break into websites to infect its visitors with malware or infiltrate databases to grab customer information and no website is too small for hackers.
Small businesses are especially vulnerable because they lack the technology expertise or security that larger companies have. Websites are compromised all of the time and could set a business back for weeks, costing them valuable visitors and money.
Here are a few tips to keep your website secure and your visitors safe:
Keep your software up to date
Keeping your software, including your operating system and any software such as CMS, is vital to keeping your website safe. Hackers will target security flaws in popular web software and attack websites en masses. Always ensure you have the latest versions of software and apply security patches.
Passwords
Most people choose passwords they can remember and not complex passwords. But you must use a storing password to your FTP server and website admin areas.
It’s also important to change your passwords regularly, especially if you give them to your employees or contractors.
Registering with Google’s Webmaster Tools
By registering with Webmaster Tools, you can receive notifications about malware immediately. The service will tell you what Google is seeing so you can ensure you don’t end up on Google’s blacklist, which is used by Chrome, Firefox and Safari.
Use a firewall to protect your network
Just like double locking the door to your house, a firewall adds an extra layer of protection to your website. If you don’t know how to choose the right one or configure one, hire an expert who can do it for you.
Keep a backup of your website
In case a breach does occur, it’s important to have a full back up of your website in a secure place so that you can get it up and running more quickly.
Hire experts
If you are not a technologically savvy person or have major concerns about your website, the best thing to do is hire someone to manage your website or provide tougher security.
The bottom line is you cannot be too careful when it comes to your website and keeping it secure. This is a new era of online and security breaches are becoming more frequent. Keep your website and your business safe!
