No matter the size of your business, security should be one of your top priorities. Many business owners tend to consider physical safety over cybersecurity, although both are vital for protection. Here are some tips that can help your business stay secure from threats, both inside and outside.

Always be alert and aware

Business owners and managers should always be aware of security risks that could affect their business assets. Even employees can take part in protecting their place of work. This is true whether you are looking at property safety or cybersecurity.

Physical security: There are a lot of ways that you can be aware when it comes to your security. Here’s a small list of just a few.

• Know your security needs and what systems you already have in place.
• Stay on top of vulnerable areas of your business. For example, always make sure fences and gates are in good shape and always fix broken windows or doors.
• Speak with employees regularly to see if they have any safety concerns. They may not feel safe going outside alone at night or they may see that a door is broken and forget to tell you.
• Keep an eye out for suspicious persons in or around your business. This can include suspicious behavior from employees.

Cybersecurity: In some ways, being aware of your cybersecurity needs can be more difficult. This is especially true if you don’t understand this type of security. Here are three steps that can help you get started on cybersecurity.

• First, it can be helpful to speak with an expert. They will be able to evaluate your needs and see what areas of your current protection can be upgraded or changed.
• Next, do some research on what options are available. Look into data backups, ant-virus software, asset monitoring, patch management, and other services.
• Finally, set a schedule to go over whatever practices you use for cybersecurity. Things change often in the world of technology and you should always be aware of new threats.

Limit access to only those who need it

This is one of the most important aspects of business security. There are areas of your business, as well as files and documents, that not everyone should have access to. Here are a few tips on how to do this successfully.

Physical security: To help prevent break-ins or random people coming into your building, add a security system with alarms, codes, keys, fobs, and cards. These can be used indoors, as well, to give access to certain rooms, files, or equipment.

Cybersecurity: There are a lot of options available for this type of security. From usernames/passwords to networking systems with all the bells and whistles, you can get custom security that fits your needs. Be sure to ask about patch management, firewalls, virus protection, and website filtering. Also, never underestimate the value of consultation services for all of your employees. A good IT company will be able to educate everyone on your team on how to be safe on the web, no matter what level of security they have.

Make security part of your regular routine

It may take some time to integrate new security for your property and files, but it will be time well spent. You can start by creating an emergency plan in case anything goes wrong. Do this for both your physical security and any IT and cybersecurity you have in place.

You should also conduct regular audits to ensure your safety practices are running well and stay up-to-date. Use these tips to help you develop the start of an auditing plan.

1. Your audits should include reviews of your employees, their files, and their knowledge of your security practices.
2. Make sure shredding of any sensitive information is done regularly and securely.
3. Run drills to ensure you, your security company, and your team are ready in case disaster strikes.
4. Ask your security and IT company for their help. They understand the ins and outs of security and can help businesses large and small stay secure.

Need help with IT and security services?

With over 250 years of combined experience and a comprehensive list of Services, Andrews & Associates is prepared to help your business succeed! You can reach us at (806) 242-1088 or Send us an Email to learn more. Don’t forget to visit our sister company, Premier Alarm Solutions, for your property’s security needs!