Small business safe online

What is online security?

Online Security, also known as ‘electronic security’ or ‘e-security’ is about having the appropriate security measures in place on your system and keeping security in mind when using the internet or email.

Why do I need to be concerned?

In recent years, sophisticated and malicious online attacks have emerged on the Internet. Many of these attacks are now being targeted towards home users and small businesses.

Why do I need to protect information?

Your business computer may hold important business information including your

  • intellectual property;
  • customer and pricing policies; and
  • important financial information such as payroll and banking.

If it's damaged, lost or stolen this will have serious consequences for your business.

Your business records may also contain important information about your customers—names, addresses and financial details. Not protecting this information could have an impact on the reputation of your business or the relationship you have with your customers.

What if I am a home-based business?

Practicing online security is particularly important for home-based businesses which often share their computer resources with family members. Make sure your business information is kept separate from other information on any shared computer. Also ensure that you regularly and separately back up your business information and the programs/applications that are essential to running your business.