Small to midsize businesses are vital to a developing economy. These companies often rely on IT to keeps costs down and gain competitive edge in the marketplace. Improving cyber security for small businesses is an important step in supporting economic growth and future prosperity. As cyber criminals continue to develop clever and sophisticated strategies to gain access to company data and private records, security strategies must meet these aggressors with an organized and stalwart defense.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is charged with promoting communications to support the economy along with improving security and defense measures for these transmissions. Information regarding IT security tips for small businesses can be found at the FCC website. The site also details 10 Cyber Security Tips for Small Business:

1. Protect information, computers and networks from viruses, spyware and other malicious code
2. Provide firewall security for your Internet connection
3. Download and install software updates for your operating systems and applications as they become available
4. Make backup copies of important business data and information.
5. Control physical access to your computers and network components
6. Secure your Wi-Fi networks. If you have a Wi-Fi network for your workplace make sure it is secure and hidden.
7. Require individual user accounts for each employee
8. Limit employee access to data and information, and limit authority to install software
9. Regularly change passwords

If you operate a small business, make sure to follow these basic tips and explore your options to maintain compliance with all government regulations for network security. Seek practical advice and experienced professionals to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your security and make necessary improvements. It is important to take measures to safeguard information and support secure communications to protect your company from cyber criminals waiting to strike.