As easy as it is to start a legitimate company online, fraudsters can also effortlessly create scam firms that take advantage of people. They can shut down an online shop as quickly as it was setup. In order to succeed in the online business realm, you must pay close attention to building trust with your customers.
Large established enterprises with reputable names have an advantage when dealing with clients over the Internet. These well-known firms have built their reputation over the years and have the benefit of years or decades of proven levels of trust. But a small or medium sized business (SMB) just starting out has to lay a foundation to prove its legitimacy to potential consumers.
Though these new entrepreneurs may lack a sophisticated IT department or be constricted to a limited budget, SMBs must invest in proper security solutions just like their corporate counterparts in order for their ventures to flourish.
Tips to Protect your SMB’s Data
Small business networks often have less security measures imposed than those of large companies, and are therefore an easier target for attack. New and experienced entrepreneurs alike can use the following tips to increase the security of their SMB:
- After installing security software, be sure to keep up with automatic updates. For instance, computer viruses are constantly evolving and your computer andor network must be prepared to deal with the ever-changing epidemic (1).
- Back up your data. A vital file can be erased with just the click of a button, by either your own employees or a malicious attack. Utilize CD-ROMs or an external hard drive; set up regular full or incremental back-ups based on your company’s needs to prevent unintended loss of information (1).
- Do not ignore the importance of encryption and strong passwords. The 2006 CSIFBI Computer Crime Report found that unauthorized access to information cost the 313 companies surveyed an astounding $10,617,000.
Is Email A Risk to your Business?
Outbound email security is also critical in establishing trusted relationships with prospective clients and protecting your companies’ assets. Computer viruses, phishing attacks and resulting identity theft cases have caused consumers to become weary of doing business over the Internet. Fraudsters posing as representatives from your firm can put your company’s integrity on the line. 20% of the consumers are at risk for having their information stolen because they do not understand the term or the practice of phishing (2).
How do your clients know that the email you’re sending is secure?
In the beginning, phishers targeted large established brand enterprises; that’s just not the case anymore. Scammers are expanding their targets to smaller institutions that consumers feel will be less likely to be affected. We do so much to protect our inboxes, yet leave the information contained in outbound email at risk for tampering or theft.
Email leaks containing such information as employee data, business plans or customer account numbers can cost thousands of dollars, not to mention your firm's credibility. This risk can be virtually eliminated with a user-friendly anti-theft solution; the software gives control over who can view and distribute your data.
Ensure Trust with Anti-Theft Tools
In addition to standard anti-virus and anti-spam applications, SMBs should have an email anti-theft program in place. Businesses that implement an anti-theft solution are also able to validate their identity to customers with every outgoing message to fight back against phishing schemes. Email anti-theft software authenticates each user, guaranteeing that someone else won’t be using your company’s identity to send out mail. Clients of companies who use an anti-theft application can easily differentiate legitimate emails from fraudulent messages. Your businesses’ reputation is protected from hoaxes, as are your customers and their personal information.
Taking necessary security precautions is one of the most essential things a business can do in order to instill trust into its customer relationships. Existing clientele will be reassured that their information is safe in your company’s possession; prospective consumers will be more inclined to pursue business transactions with your firm.
SMBs are a vital part of today's economy; small companies are responsible for bringing in an astounding 39% of United States' gross national product (3). They are innovative and driven members of the business world, competing for loyal customers and quality employees with large, reputable corporations, as well as amongst themselves. Instilling a sense of trustworthiness into your online business through email security can help your business stand out in order to grow and succeed into a well-known, dependable company.