Happy Black Friday! While the focus might be on sales, it’s also the perfect weekend to give your business the attention it needs behind the scenes. With the holiday season ramping up, now’s the time to ensure your website, security, and online presence are ready to handle anything the season throws your way.
Here are five essential tasks every business owner should prioritize this weekend:
1. Secure Your Payment Methods:
Ensuring payment security can help you avoid disruptions and protect sensitive financial information.
- Use secure payment portals that offer encryption. Learn more.
- Regularly monitor transaction history for unusual activity.
- Keep business bank account details private and secure.
- Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for payment approvals.
- Update billing details for hosting and domain services.
How to update payment methods securely
2. Conduct a Website Security Check:
A secure website builds trust and keeps customers safe during their visit.
- Install an SSL certificate to encrypt website data.
- Regularly update software, plugins, and themes.
- Perform routine malware scans and address vulnerabilities.
- Use a web application firewall (WAF) to block potential threats.
- Ensure backups are automated and stored in secure locations.
Learn more about website security
3. Strengthen Your Passwords:
Weak passwords are one of the easiest entry points for hackers.
- Create long, strong passphrases using upper/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Implement two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of protection.
- Use a password manager to generate and store secure passwords.
- Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts.
- Test the strength of your passwords with trusted online tools.
4. Beware of Holiday Scams:
The holidays are prime time for cybercriminals. Stay vigilant against scams.
- Watch for phishing emails pretending to be from trusted companies.
- Verify the sender’s email address before responding.
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages.
- Double-check domain renewal requests before payment.
- Educate your team on how to spot and report suspicious activity.
5. Stay Ahead of AI-Based Threats:
AI technology has made scams more sophisticated. Protect your business.
- Be cautious of voice cloning scams asking for sensitive information.
- Verify the identity of callers or requesters through alternative channels.
- Train staff to recognize and avoid AI-driven phishing attacks.
- Limit sharing sensitive data in public or unsecured environments.
- Use AI-based cybersecurity tools to detect unusual activity.
Protect yourself from AI scams
Final Note:
This Black Friday, invest in the health of your business just as much as your sales. As we approach 20 years in business, it’s been an honor to be your trusted partner for digital solutions. Let’s make this season your most secure and successful yet!
Warm Regards,
Website Store
📧 Email us: info@websitesstore.nyc
🌐 Visit us: WebsiteStore.NYC
