Whether it's performing searches online or handling human resource software, a considerable number of business owners expect their recent hires to be familiar with cyber security.
According to a recent poll conducted by the internet security software company Symantec, more than half of small business owners – 53 percent – indicate that before they hire someone, they check to make sure they're proficient in computer skills as it pertains to online safety and the risk of cyber attacks.
It's estimated that 87 percent of small businesses have at least one employee who used the internet daily. This makes the awareness of potential information leaks that could result of prime importance, noes Michael Kaiser, executive director of the national Cyber Security Alliance.
"Small businesses are expressing a strong need for employees with basic skills and knowledge about how to use technology safely, securely, ethically and productively," said Kaiser. "Given the role of small businesses in our economy, it's so important to integrate cybersecurity training into all education levels."
He added that to ensure everyone abides by HR compliance rules, company owners should conduct ongoing training sessions about how to deal with internet security issues as they arise, as hackers are constantly changing their strategies to take advantage of businesses that are vulnerable.
There are, however, several tried-and-true strategies that have stood the test of time.
For example, Symantec recommends that business owners preach the importance of strong passwords. Ideally, passwords should be at least eight characters in length and should weave in a combination of letters, symbols and numbers. Because passwords are case sensitive, remind employees about being aware of whether they capitalize certain letters.
Business owners may also want to advise their workers to be sure they encrypt all confidential information – whether it's stored on desktops or laptops – and to scan any files they download to ensure they're not attached with viruses or malware.
