Cybersecurity Basics Every Alabama Small Business Should Know

# Cybersecurity Basics Every Alabama Small Business Should Know

Cyberattacks are increasing, and small businesses are prime targets. In fact, 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses. Here's what every Oxford, AL business owner needs to know to protect their company.

Why Small Businesses Are Targets
Cybercriminals target small businesses because:
- They often lack dedicated IT security staff
- They have weaker security measures than large companies
- They still have valuable data (customer info, financial records)
- They may not recover from an attack as easily

Essential Cybersecurity Practices

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
**The Problem:** "Password123" won't cut it anymore.

**The Solution:**
- Use passwords with 12+ characters
- Include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
- Use different passwords for different accounts
- Use a password manager (LastPass, 1Password, Bitwarden)

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password. Even if someone steals your password, they can't access your account without the second factor.

**Enable MFA on:**
- Email accounts
- Banking
- Microsoft 365
- Any business-critical applications

3. Keep Software Updated
Outdated software is one of the easiest ways hackers break in. Many cyberattacks exploit known vulnerabilities in old software.

**What to update regularly:**
- Windows operating system
- Microsoft Office
- Web browsers
- Antivirus software
- All business applications

4. Train Your Employees
Your employees are your first line of defense—and your biggest vulnerability.

**Train employees to:**
- Recognize phishing emails
- Never click suspicious links
- Report security concerns immediately
- Follow password policies
- Protect sensitive data

5. Backup Your Data
Ransomware attacks encrypt your files and demand payment. With proper backups, you can recover without paying.

**Backup best practices:**
- Follow the 3-2-1 rule: 3 copies, 2 different media types, 1 offsite
- Test backups regularly
- Keep backups disconnected from your network
- Automate the backup process

6. Secure Your WiFi Network
**Basic WiFi security:**
- Change the default admin password
- Use WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 minimum)
- Hide your SSID (network name)
- Use a strong WiFi password
- Create a separate guest network

7. Install Quality Antivirus/Anti-Malware
Free antivirus isn't enough for businesses. Invest in business-grade security software that includes:
- Real-time threat detection
- Automatic updates
- Centralized management
- Advanced threat protection

8. Limit Access to Sensitive Data
Not every employee needs access to everything.

**Implement:**
- Role-based access controls
- Principle of least privilege
- Regular access reviews
- Immediate removal of access when employees leave

9. Secure Mobile Devices
Employees using phones and laptops for work create security risks.

**Mobile security essentials:**
- Require device passwords/PINs
- Enable remote wipe capability
- Use Mobile Device Management (MDM)
- Encrypt devices
- Install security apps

10. Have an Incident Response Plan
When (not if) a security incident occurs, you need a plan.

**Your plan should include:**
- Who to contact first
- How to contain the threat
- Communication procedures
- Recovery steps
- Legal/compliance requirements

Common Cybersecurity Threats in 2025

PhishingFake emails that trick you into giving up passwords or clicking malicious links.

RansomwareMalware that encrypts your files and demands payment.

Business Email Compromise (BEC)Attackers impersonate executives to trick employees into transferring money or sharing sensitive data.

Password AttacksAutomated tools that try thousands of password combinations.

Insider ThreatsCurrent or former employees who intentionally or accidentally cause security breaches.

Cybersecurity Resources for Alabama Businesses
- **NIST Cybersecurity Framework:** Framework for improving security
- **FTC Small Business Cybersecurity:** Free resources and guides
- **Alabama Small Business Development Center:** Local support and training
- **CMMC (if you work with DoD):** Compliance requirements

Get Professional Help
Cybersecurity is complex and constantly evolving. Many small businesses benefit from partnering with a managed IT service provider who can:

- Monitor systems 24/7
- Keep software updated
- Implement security best practices
- Provide employee training
- Respond to incidents
- Ensure compliance

Is Your Business Protected?
At Operation Buildup, we provide comprehensive cybersecurity services for Oxford-area businesses, including:

- Security assessments
- 24/7 monitoring
- Employee training
- Incident response
- CMMC compliance

**Schedule a free security assessment** to identify your vulnerabilities and create a protection plan.

Don't wait until after an attack. Contact Operation Buildup today.