The Importance of Protecting your Business's Digital Assets
Published on 15 December 14
James0
The value of digital assets is often highly understated. Business owners will install security systems in their office and take steps to ensure their physical space isn’t compromised, but nowadays the real dangers are lying behind computer screens. When your digital assets are compromised or lost it could have serious repercussions.
This article will help you understand the importance of protecting your digital assets.
Hackers and Malware
If you’re computer systems encounter malware, hackers could gain access to the highest levels of unauthorized data, such as customer bank details and company financials. And that’s not to mention that the malicious software could render your hardware completely useless. High-quality firewalls and anti-malware software is a necessity.
Even if you have the right programs hackers will always be one step ahead. Thousands of new viruses are created on a daily basis and even if you pay for the best quality software available you’ll never be completely protected. Part of avoiding the problem is knowing what not to do. Consider sending your employees on a digital security training seminar. Organizations such as the PGI Cyber Academy run courses specifically targeted at business owners who are looking for ways to minimise risk when using the Internet.
Data Backups
Imagine the nightmare scenario of losing all of your company information. You’d have to build your entire operation from the ground up. Keeping backups of all of your data isn’t just recommended, it’s a necessity. You should have emergency backups stored in at least three different high-security locations.
Internet Content
No doubt you’ve heard the phrase content is king. Content is one of the most valuable digital assets you can have and accounts for everything from written words to videos and images. The Internet is riddled with plagiarism and if you develop a presence on the web your content will inevitably be taken, which could devalue your website - it’s simply the nature of the beast. However, there are steps you can take to make the process more challenging.
Since plagiarism will occur, you might as well allow it. In fact, you can actually turn this into an advantage. Make it clear that bloggers and other businesses are allowed to use your content providing they link back to your website. This will not only enhance your exposure and authority, but will give you some valuable link juice. This will help your website move up the rankings.
Electronic Data Management
Electronic data storage is far safer than physical data storage if used properly. For example, certain Cloud-based security systems have encryptions than will baffle even the world’s most talented hackers. The process of transferring physical documents into a digital format can be daunting, as explained by Wincanton Records Management; however, the security benefits alone make it a worthwhile investment, even if it’s simply for peace of mind.
Protecting your digital assets should be very high on your list of priorities. While these tips will help, remember that there is always room for error - systematically and physically. It’s important that you plan for every eventuality. From disgruntled employees stealing information to major computing malfunctions, you can never predict where the next security breach will occur, and it takes just one for your entire operation to burn down.
Image Credit (Creative Commons): Chris Potter
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