Website security is a significant aspect for all businesses, and if your website isn't secure or you aren't keeping your customer's details secure, then not only are you putting your business and customer data at risk, then you are putting yourself on the wrong side of the law. Data breaches can cost you thousands in fines and remedial work to secure your website and your company systems, and it can cost you even more in your reputation, something you cannot afford to lose as a small business. With this in mind, what are the 4 best ways to secure your website?
By Team Savant
Image: Claudio Schwarz
Secure Passwords
Around 80% of hacks and data breaches are due to people not using secure passwords. Despite this, people still insist on having bad habits when it comes to using passwords for vital aspects of their business or checking the passwords of employees and customers if they make an account or use a portal.
You can use a password generator to help you create complex and unique passwords, or you can use a password manager to store them for easier logins. All passwords should be over 12 characters and contain a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. It's also a good idea to change or force a change of passwords on a regular basis; every three months seems to be the standard length of time.
Comply With Privacy Laws
There are many different privacy laws and acts in operation worldwide, and depending on where you trade or who can use your website and services, you need to ensure you meet the required guidelines. 71% of countries will have a privacy law, such as the GDPR of Europe and the American Data and Privacy and Protection Act. You need to ensure that your website complies with all laws and regulations pertaining to your business, both on and offline. An excellent way to make sure that you are covered and doing what you need to is to have your website evaluated, and then anything you are missing can be rectified to ensure complete compliance. Once this is done, you can use the right Consent Management Preference system for your website so users have added peace of mind.
SSL Certificate
An SSL certificate alerts users to the security of your website and adds an extra layer of protection. An SSL, or secure sockets layer, is a security basic that keeps all data and information entered safely. Users will know you have an SSL in place thanks to the little padlock Google displays next to your website name in the search bar.
Update Plugins or Addons
You need to make sure you're updating all plugins you are using and software that is installed on your website. Out-of-date software, plugins, and other add-ons that haven't been updated can lead to vulnerabilities that could cause your site to be hacked or data exposed. Typically, updates occur because issues have been found once the previous release has been used for a while, and fixes are required to rectify these. Not updating means you lose any built-in security and are putting everything at risk.
Keeping your website safe and secure is not only a legal requirement; it is essential to help you build customer trust and ensure that you are delivering on your requirements regarding internet safety.