The Web Security Basics For Your Business

The Web Security Basics For Your Business

by JonSolomon

If you run a business on the web (or if you make regular use of it) then it’s important to make sure that you do everything you can to try and keep your data secure.  There are many ways to go about doing so, but these are some of the basics to help you get going, brought to you in association with UK Asset Protection.

Regularly change passwords, and alter the account names from the default.  It’s quite common when you sign up for a service that you’re provided with passwords up-front.  It’s extremely important to change these immediately to ensure that only people within positions of trust can access it.  Ensure that any account or usernames you’re presented with are altered also.

Continually update your operating systems.  Whilst updating these can be a bit of a pain in the backside (especially as it always seems to happen when you’re working to a deadline), it’s important that you update your computer whenever it requests that an update is made.  Security patches usually make up a big part of these updates, and hackers will often target computers that haven’t kept up-to-date with these installations.  It’s also important that you allow any specifically installed security programs to update whenever they ask to ensure that they also are kept in perfect running order.

Always use encryption software if you’re making transactions.  If you’re running any kind of website that makes transactions, then it’s your responsibility to ensure that you’ve taken all of the necessary steps to keep customer data secure.  (In some cases – such as with Mastercard and VISA USA) the card providers themselves will request you provide proof of having done so.  Encryption software is the ideal way to make sure this is the case – it will also protect your own internal information.

Limit access on a ‘need-to-see’ basis.  This is both a sensible and common approach amongst larger businesses, and can also be very effective amongst smaller businesses seeking to minimise the risk of there being a data breach.  Initially, it can be enough to simply not introduce a shared network, and to keep the important data on the computer of those who need it.  However, once your company has reached a decent size and requires a central network, then it’s important to make sure that you password protect any files of significant importance.

How to effectively use credit cards in business

How to effectively use credit cards in business

by Ross Tav

An entrepreneur must use credit and use it wisely. With credit cards, the business owner can enjoy plenty of benefits without much risk. Here is a quick guide for listing the benefits of using a credit card for a business.

Cash flow

When running a company, one must understand the importance of solid cash flow. In fact, this is the most important financial aspect of a small business. With a credit card, one can pay for goods and services future. Remember, when receiving the bill, a person has up to three weeks to make the payment without paying any interest.

Points

A credit card company usually offers cash back or points. For a big spender, the points can add up quickly. The great thing about rewards programs is that there are plenty of options. A business owner can collect airline miles via an Avios Credit Card, gift certificates to a store or even get cold hard cash. Over the months and years, this can add up to thousands of dollars in free stuff. Without a doubt, this is one of the greatest benefits to using credit, especially when a customer considers that he or she will spend money regardless of which method they use.

Interest free

When a company needs to make a large purchase, they often do not have the funds on hand. Luckily, many banks and finance companies offer customers zero percent interest credit cards. Usually, the company will offer this for a set period. Over time, this can save the company hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in finance charges. Remember, one must make the minimum payment while carrying an interest free loan from the credit card company.

Security

 

When using a check or debit card, one will not enjoy much security. On the other hand, with a credit card, a consumer can shop online or in person without fear. This is a serious benefit as many companies have experienced fraud and have paid dearly. One must realize that when using other methods they will not recover their funds until after the investigation. With credit cards, the consumer will not be on the hook for the charges provided the charges were fraudulent.

Warranty

In trying to attract more business, some of the major issuers will extend the warranty for a product. In offering this, the bank will usually add one or two years to the manufacturers warranty. This is a nice benefit for a company that buys expensive electronic equipment. Remember, without protection, one will have problems getting their broken item repaired or replaced.

When used wisely, credit cards can help a business owner organize his or her finances and make more money. Fortunately, a new entrepreneur should have no trouble using credit wisely.