Cyber Security Essentials For Small Businesses

Cyber crime has surpassed the international drug trade top criminal moneymaker with damages expected to exceed $10 Trillion by 2025. These attacks are not being executed by the stereotypical hacker. This is 21st century organized crime. As a society, cyber-attacks are a problem we can no longer afford to ignore.It is not an overstatement to say everyone is a target. Every business, organization and individual is at risk, yet most do not even take the most basic cybersecurity steps to protect themselves, even though there are straightforward and low-cost measures that can be taken.Even with the advancement of technology, cyber-criminals are still overwhelmingly using the tried-and-true methods of weak password exploitation, phishing and confidence scams, trusted access through compromised vendors, openly accessible network ports to the Internet, and un-patched vulnerabilities to make light work of the business of cyber-crime. Because cyber-criminals are having so much success with these basic methods, they generally stick to what they know works.This book outlines the five actionable steps every small business owner can take to significantly reduce the risk of becoming the next casualty of cyber crime. While this book focuses on helping small businesses, most of these topics also apply to individual computer users.

Cyber crime has surpassed the international drug trade top criminal moneymaker with damages expected to exceed $6 Trillion by 2021. These attacks are not being executed by the stereotypical hacker. This is 21st century organized crime. As a society, cyber-attacks are a problem we can no longer afford to ignore.It is not an overstatement to say everyone is a target. Every business, organization and individual is at risk, yet most do not even take the most basic cybersecurity steps to protect themselves, even though there are straightforward and low-cost measures that can be taken.Even with the advancement of technology, cyber-criminals are still overwhelmingly using the tried-and-true methods of weak password exploitation, phishing and confidence scams, trusted access through compromised vendors, openly accessible network ports to the Internet, and un-patched vulnerabilities to make light work of the business of cyber-crime. Because "garden variety" cyber-criminals are having so much success with these basic methods, they generally stick to what they know works and have largely ignored the more complex methods available to them.This book outlines the five actionable steps every small business owner can take to significantly reduce the risk of becoming the next casualty of cyber crime. While this book focuses on helping small businesses, most of these topics also apply to individual computer users.

One in five small businesses fall victim to cybercrime each year. Cybercrime costs the global economy billions of dollars each year and is expected to continue to rise because small businesses are considered low-hanging fruit and easy prey for criminals. Inside You'll find practical, cost-effective ways to protect you, your clients' data, and your reputation from hackers, ransomware and identity thieves. You'll learn: -The truth about Windows updates and software patches -The 7 layers of security every small business must have -The top 10 ways hackers get around your firewall and anti-virus software -46 security tips to keep you safe and more.

An accessible introduction to cybersecurity concepts and practices Cybersecurity Essentials provides a comprehensive introduction to the field, with expert coverage of essential topics required for entry-level cybersecurity certifications. An effective defense consists of four distinct challenges: securing the infrastructure, securing devices, securing local networks, and securing the perimeter. Overcoming these challenges requires a detailed understanding of the concepts and practices within each realm. This book covers each challenge individually for greater depth of information, with real-world scenarios that show what vulnerabilities look like in everyday computing scenarios. Each part concludes with a summary of key concepts, review questions, and hands-on exercises, allowing you to test your understanding while exercising your new critical skills. Cybersecurity jobs range from basic configuration to advanced systems analysis and defense assessment. This book provides the foundational information you need to understand the basics of the field, identify your place within it, and start down the security certification path. Learn security and surveillance fundamentals Secure and protect remote access and devices Understand network topologies, protocols, and strategies Identify threats and mount an effective defense Cybersecurity Essentials gives you the building blocks for an entry level security certification and provides a foundation of cybersecurity knowledge

For some small businesses, the security of their information, systems, and networks might not be a high priority, but for their customers, employees, and trading partners it is very important. The size of a small business varies by type of business, but typically is a business or organization with up to 500 employees. In the U.S., the number of small businesses totals to over 95% of all businesses. The small business community produces around 50% of our nation¿s GNP and creates around 50% of all new jobs in our country. Small businesses, therefore, are a very important part of our nation¿s economy. This report will assist small business management to understand how to provide basic security for their information, systems, and networks. Illustrations.

Embark on a Journey to Fortify Your Business in the Digital Age Attention small business owners: The digital landscape is fraught with dangers, and the threat grows more sophisticated every day. Your hard work, your dreams, they're all on the line. Imagine being equipped with a guide so clear and concise that cybersecurity no longer feels like an enigma. "Cybersecurity Simplified for Small Business: A Plain-English Guide" is that critical weapon in your arsenal. Small businesses are uniquely vulnerable to cyber-attacks. This indispensable guide unfolds the complex world of cybersecurity into plain English, allowing you to finally take control of your digital defenses. With an understanding of what's at stake, "Cybersecurity Simplified for Small Business" transforms the anxiety of potential breaches into confident action. Interest is captured with a compelling opening that unveils why cybersecurity is paramount for small businesses. As you absorb the fundamentals, you will encounter relatable examples that lay the groundwork for recognizing the value of your own digital assets and the importance of guarding them. From foundational terminology to the raw reality of the modern cyber threat landscape, your strategic guide is at your fingertips. Drive builds as this book becomes an irreplaceable toolkit. Learn to train your team in the art of digital vigilance, create complex passwords, and ward off the cunning of phishing attempts. Learn about the resilience of firewalls, the protection provided by antivirus software and encryption, and the security provided by backups and procedures for disaster recovery. Action culminates in straightforward steps to respond to cyber incidents with clarity and speed. This isn't just a guide; it's a blueprint for an ongoing strategy that changes the game. With appendixes of checklists, resources, tools, and an incident response template, this book isn't just about surviving; it's about thriving securely in your digital endeavors. Buckle up for a journey that transitions fear into finesse. Empower your business with resilience that stands tall against the threats of tomorrow--a cybersecurity strategy that ensures success and secures your legacy. The key to a future unchained by cyber-fear starts with the wisdom in these pages. Heed the call and become a beacon of cybersecurity mastery.