Here’s the biggest mistake you could make for your small business this year: fail to protect your business data against cyber threats. Smaller companies have fewer resources to adequately protect business data, struggle to allocate much of any a budget to security, and furthermore don’t feel threatened enough to implement safe practices.

All of those conditions add up to cybercriminals having a field day with the little guys. Here’s how to keep your business data safe on a budget. Trust us. You’ll want to implement every practice, below.

Educate Your Employees. Unfortunately, human error is one the premiere causes of data compromise in the business world. If you empower your employees to use the best security practices you’re better off in the long run: changing passwords often, only visiting sites with “https” in the URL versus “http,” encrypting sensitive emails and data, avoiding public Wi-Fi. The list goes on.

Backup and Synchronize Your Data. In the world of multiple, connected devices, it is crucial to synchronize, synchronize, synchronize and backup your data regularly. Backup your data onsite and offsite. You don’t want any malware that’s infected your computer to get into and corrupt your backup copies, as well. If you have the budget, ideally, you’d invest in professional backup services. They really know what they’re doing and security is one of their top priorities as a service provider.

Patch Immediately. A patch is essentially free medical care. Why wouldn’t you take advantage? Fortunately, Microsoft issues its patches monthly and automatically. However, you’ll want to stay on top of any software updates and if a service provider notifies you of an irregular patch, implement it immediately!

Create Multiple Internet Strongholds. You may have few employees and that’s okay; however, at the very least, implement a guest network for visitors, and perhaps, a third network for connected devices. If a cybercriminal figures out how to make it past your router and onto your network, it could put you out of business if you only have one network. You have no reason not to segment Internet access across your office.

Develop a BYOD Policy. This falls hand in hand with educating your employees. Perhaps, you’ve banned the use of personal devices for work purposes within and without the office; however, that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for addressing the presence of mobile devices in the workplace. Discuss the potential dangers of mobile technology when you educate your employees on your security procedures. We all sneak check our emails from our phones every once in a while. Why not empower your employees to be smart about it?

Protecting the business data of customers and employees, alike, from the threat of cybercriminals isn’t important to your business. It’s essential. So here’s the last tip. If you find the prospect of implementing proper security measures daunting – enlist a pro! If you don’t have the funds for ongoing security support, set up a consultation. Trust us. It could save your business in the long run.

Are you ready to take the next step in securing your small business? Download our FREE GUIDE: 7 Security Urgent Security Measures Every Business Should Have in Place Now.