Some entrepreneurs may feel that their new startup is too small to worry about security. However, thefts of data and physical property can be highly prevalent and highly damaging should they occur. When setting up your new startup paying attention to how your new venture can be compromised and what you can do to prevent this from happening is of utmost importance. With email threats on the rise, they’re up 64% on previous years and fines exceeding multimillion for data and cyber terrorists- see the Colonial Pipeline Cyber Attack, protecting your company has never been more critical than ever.

 

 

But where do you start when it comes to protecting your company?

 

Identify the risks

 

If you don’t know how your startup can be breached, you don’t know how best to protect it. Don’t be afraid to discuss how threats pose a risk with employees or peers and what you need to do to rectify this. What should you be looking for? The first is the danger to your organization from defending your users and the applications they access. The second point to mention is application security and product danger. A third area is concerned with production and safety and making sure that your security program’s functioning is something that keeps up with the level of threat.

 

Start with the basics.

 

If you are proactive about security from day one, you will be better placed to implement newer measures as required. Plus, you will also be able to protect yourself and your data without the worry of threats. Putting the basics into practice can be as easy as using security features that come with many devices these days if you are worried about online security fraud and data theft. This is using strong passwords, not clicking links in emails, firewalls, antivirus, etc.

Fundamental basics work well for physical buildings and products, too – think door locks, restricting access, security guards, and product tags. Sometimes the most straightforward solutions are the most effective, and just because they seem too basic doesn’t mean they aren’t practical tools to use. Look at what you need and what you need to protect, then start from the ground up.

 

Approach security as an investment

 

Try not to think of adding security measures as an extra expense you need to pay for. Think of it as an investment. While you won’t see any financial returns from increasing your security investments, you will notice it in other ways, such as an improved reputation and confidence in your company. If people can trust you and feel their details are safe with you, you can support and build relationships. The same if you have physical premises or products to sell. Keeping active security measures in place reduces thefts and damage, meaning you can keep your prices down and reduce loss, which is beneficial to the company and consumers. You can learn more here about how you can best protect your new startup from various security threats, both digital and physical.