As the new year approaches, many of us start thinking about resolutions—what to improve, what to start doing, and what to stop doing. But have you ever considered applying this mindset to your business’s IT security? Just like personal goals, strengthening your cybersecurity practices can set you up for success in the year ahead.
Here are Nine essential IT security practices with actionable steps you can implement now:
1. Improve Passwords
Passwords are the first line of defense, yet managing dozens of them can feel overwhelming.
Actionable Tips:
- Use a password manager like BitWarden to store credentials securely.
- Create strong passwords (12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).
- Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts.
➡ Learn more about our Password Management Services.
2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Passwords alone aren’t enough anymore. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring multiple forms of verification.
Actionable Tips:
- Enable MFA on all critical accounts (email, banking, cloud services).
- Use app-based authentication (e.g., Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator) instead of SMS for better security.
- Require MFA for all employees accessing company systems.
➡ Explore our MFA Solutions.
3. Digital Cleansing
The start of the year is the perfect time to declutter your devices.
Actionable Tips:
- Delete unused apps from smartphones and computers.
- Review app permissions and revoke unnecessary access.
- Update all remaining apps to the latest version for security patches.
➡ Check out our Managed IT Services.
4. Strengthen Data Privacy and Compliance
Protecting sensitive data is critical to avoid breaches and regulatory penalties.
Actionable Tips:
- Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest.
- Implement role-based access controls (RBAC) to limit who can view PII.
- Review and update your privacy policy to comply with GDPR, CCPA, or other regulations.
- Schedule quarterly audits of data handling practices.
➡ Learn more about Compliance & Security Audits.
5. Dark Web Scanning
Cybercriminals often sell stolen credentials on the dark web.
Actionable Tips:
- Use services like Have I Been Pwned or professional dark web monitoring tools.
- Immediately reset passwords if your credentials appear in a breach.
- Enable alerts for compromised accounts.
➡ Ask about our Dark Web Monitoring Services.
6. Backup and Disaster Recovery Planning
Data loss can happen due to cyberattacks, hardware failures, or natural disasters.
Actionable Tips:
- Set up automated daily backups for critical data.
- Store backups in multiple locations (on-site and cloud).
- Test your disaster recovery plan at least twice a year.
➡ Explore our Backup & Disaster Recovery Solutions.
7. Security Awareness Training
Human error is one of the leading causes of security breaches.
Actionable Tips:
- Conduct quarterly phishing simulation tests.
- Provide short, engaging training sessions on cybersecurity best practices.
- Make security part of your company culture—reward employees for reporting suspicious activity.
➡ Learn about our Security Awareness Training Programs.
8. Email Security
Email remains a primary attack vector for hackers.
Actionable Tips:
- Implement advanced email filtering solutions.
- Train employees to spot phishing attempts and verify suspicious emails.
- Enable SPF, DKIM, and DMARC protocols to prevent email spoofing.
➡ Check out our Email Security Services.
9. Cloud Management
Misconfigured cloud storage can expose sensitive data.
Actionable Tips:
- Use encryption for all cloud-stored data.
- Enable multi-factor authentication for cloud accounts.
- Regularly audit cloud configurations and permissions.
- Monitor for unusual activity using cloud security tools.
➡ Learn more about our Cloud Management Solutions.
Start the Year Secure with Tobin Solutions
Cybersecurity isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a business priority. By taking these steps now, you’ll not only protect your company but also set the tone for a proactive, security-focused year.
Ready to strengthen your IT security and be ready for the new year? Tobin Solutions can help you implement these best practices and more. From password management and MFA to dark web monitoring and disaster recovery planning, we provide comprehensive IT solutions tailored to your business needs.
Contact Tobin Solutions today to schedule a security assessment and start the new year with confidence.
