IT policies aren’t just for large multilocation businesses. Every business today should have clear definitions of how to keep company data and information private. This protects not only your business, but also the data of everyone you do business with. Without clear policies, you leave your business open to hacks and, in some industries, compliance violations. If you’re one of the many businesses without written IT policies, we have some recommendations of what you should include so you can get started writing and implementing them.
Password Management & Rules
We get it, no one likes remember tons of passwords or having to change them regularly. However, prohibiting use of the same password on multiple applications and changing it every 30 – 90 days is an important step to help keep your data secure. An even better step to include is multi-factor identification. Click here for some helpful advice about creating secure passwords.
Acceptable Use Policy
An acceptable use policy (AUP) helps your staff understand what you expect regarding technology usage. It can include everything from which devices can connect to the company network to what you can browse on the internet. The AUP helps primarily with network security, but can also aid in worker productivity.
Work from Home & During Travel Guidelines
Pubic WiFi has many dangers. Your IT policies should clearly indicate what can and can’t be done on public WiFi (which would include hotel, coffee shop, and airport WiFi). Home WiFi is slightly more secure, but still can come with dangers especially when default passwords are used on any device connected to the internet in the home. Also, define what can be stored on the laptop or other mobile devicesand what should be stored in the cloud.
Data Access
One common mistake small businesses make is allowing everyone at the company access to everything on the server or in the cloud. Although some staff may need access to everything, rarely does every employee. The reason you should have IT policies detailing who has access to what is if that person’s laptop is stolen or their account is hacked, it limits what can be accessed.
Help Desk Reporting & Data Recovery
Computers fail and accidents happen. Where does a staff member go for help first? Who do they contact if they have questions about an email they receive? Should they open it or contact someone if they have any doubts about the authenticity. If a team member loses their laptop, is there a plan for data recovery? Having a plan for worst case scenarios will help limit loss and expedite recovery if something happens.
Need Help Establishing IT Policies? Call Toucan Technology Group
As an Indianapolis IT outsourcing company, we help businesses establish IT policies and implement them. We also make it less stressful for you, the business owner, when disaster strikes. Let us help you whether you have an IT staff or are handling it on your own. Call Toucan Technology Group to learn more about our services and to schedule an on-site assessment of what could help protect your business. Call (317) 376-4874 or fill out our contact form today.
