Launched in 2004 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA), Cybersecurity Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that protecting your data and systems is everyone’s responsibility. As cyber threats continue to evolve, it’s critical for businesses, large and small, to stay vigilant and proactive.

Here are five key ways to strengthen your company’s cybersecurity posture:

1. Enforce Strong Password Policies: Weak or reused passwords are one of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to access your systems. Require complex passwords, encourage employees to use password managers, and implement Multifactor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security.
2. Keep Software and Systems Updated: Outdated software often contains vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Consider partnering with a managed service to provide regular updates for operating systems, applications, and network devices. If possible, enable automatic updates and ensure your team knows the importance of timely patching.
3. Train Employees to Recognize Threats: Human error remains one of the biggest security risks. Regularly train your staff to recognize phishing emails, social engineering tactics, and suspicious links or attachments. Awareness is one of the strongest defenses against cyberattacks.
4. Back Up Data Regularly: Even with strong defenses, breaches or ransomware attacks can still occur. Maintain regular, encrypted backups of critical business data and verify that those backups are functioning properly. A reliable backup strategy ensures business continuity when incidents happen.
5. 5. Partner with a Trusted IT Provider: Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time task, it’s an ongoing process. Working with a trusted technology partner like Intellicom ensures your systems are protected, monitored, and managed by professionals who stay ahead of the latest threats.

At Intellicom, we understand cybersecurity is a complex topic. To see if your organization is protected, explore our Security Checklist, or explore a range of topics curated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take the first step toward stronger protection for your business. Intellicom is here to help you safeguard your data, train your team, and stay ahead of evolving threats. Reach out to sales@intellicominc.com to learn how we can support your cybersecurity needs.