Establishing a startup and running it successfully takes lots of planning and work. Besides this, startups also need to take measures to tackle numerous issues that could potentially hamper them. One of the biggest concerns is security. Startups are vulnerable to cyberattacks in today’s digital age, especially new ones. According to Financial Express, cybercrime poses a significant threat to businesses, especially startups, all around the globe. Hence, every startup should take proper safety measures to mitigate the chances of experiencing security threats and issues. This article will cover some of the most effective safety measures that startups can implement to stay safe and secure from threats. Let us get started:
Table of Contents
Use a Secure Cloud Platform for Storing and Sharing Files
Since most of a company or startup’s work is done online, file sharing is a crucial aspect that comes into play, especially if employees are working remotely. One of the most effective ways to minimize security threats is to use a trustworthy cloud storage platform to share important files and folders. Shifting to a reliable cloud storage platform will facilitate employees to share important files without fearing for their safety. Besides opting for a secure platform, startups should also go for one which offers ample storage. Numerous online cloud storage platforms offer top-tier security and paid plans that feature tons of cloud storage space. For instance, Google’s One offers tons of cloud storage space and numerous other benefits. Similarly, OneDrive by Microsoft is also a great cloud-based storage platform startups could consider.
Password-Protect ZIP Files
Even though using a secure hosting service and a safe cloud platform is a great way to avoid cyberattacks, it still does not guarantee total protection. A great safety measure to enhance a startup’s overall security is to encrypt all important ZIP files. Thankfully, both Windows and macOS offer numerous methods using which users can password-protect their ZIP files. Here is a detailed look at both OS methods:
macOS – One of the most effective ways to zip with password Mac is to use macOS’ native Terminal utility. By following the given steps, users can conveniently password-protect their ZIP file:
Step 1 – Open a new Terminal window.
Step 2 – input “cd” along with the location of the file or folder you wish to turn into a ZIP file and protect with a password.
Step 3 – Type – zip -er filename.zip
Step 4 – Hit the Enter button and follow up by verifying a password.
Besides this, you can also use a macOS-compatible third-party application like BetterZip to compress files and password-protect them. The powerful utility is compatible with all major compression formats, including RAR, 7-ZIP, ISO, and ZIP. You can easily compress your files and folder with AES-256 encryption using the app. In addition, you can also create and manage passwords using the app’s native password generator.
Windows – If you are a Windows 10 user, you can conveniently password-protect any ZIP file using the native EFS utility. To do so, follow the given steps:
Step 1 – Access the “Properties” of the file or folder you wish to compress and click on the “Advanced” option.
Step 2 – From there, check the “Encrypt contents to secure data” option and click on “Ok”
Step 3 – After applying the changes, choose from either of these two options “Encrypt the file and its parent folder” or “Encrypt the file only” as per your requirements and click on “Ok”
Another way of setting a password to a ZIP file on Windows is by using WinRAR. It is a powerful third-party application that facilitates users to compress files and enhance their security by setting passwords. Even though it is a paid application, its trial version offers users to manage their compressed files flawlessly.
Use a DNS Filtering Service
DNS stands for Domain Name System, and it is technically a notebook of the web. It is the method using which users access websites on the Internet. Every instance, when someone types a URL in their web browser’s URL field, the browser takes the help of DNS servers to navigate to the website. DNS filtering is a top-tier feature that acts as a barrier of protection against harmful and malware-filled websites. DNS filtering prevents employees’ devices from getting infected and, in turn, prevents confidential data leaks, file corruption, etc. Hence, every startup should invest in a good DNS filtering service to ensure their devices stay safe and secure.
Have an Effective Recovery Strategy in Place
Since it is not always possible to predict and prevent a cyberattack, startups should always have a strong backup plan. Having an effective recovery plan is a sensible way for any startup to avoid going bankrupt if any mishap occurs and bounce back into the business without suffering massive losses.
By following the security tips mentioned above, startups can one-up their security quotient and maximize their chances of staying safe from malware and other cyber threats.
