For many businesses today, it is their virtual assets data and information stored on their IT systems - that are really their irreplaceable and most valuable assets. Protecting that information is an issue for all businesses. Large businesses know this and spend a lot of money on IT security.

Security for small business

As a small business, where do you start? Well, for most businesses there are two main ways your electronic data can be lost: hardware failure and virus infection. Hardware failure is difficult to predict, so a regular back up routine can really save you there. To protect your self against viruses, you need to do two things: have a comprehensive anti-virus solution installed, and engage in user behaviour that protects the security and integrity of your IT systems.

Virus writers evolving to cyber criminals

Virus writers have evolved recently from being little more than a group of vandals, maliciously destroying property for no real reason, to organised groups of cyber criminals, whose intent is to make profit from illegal organised attacks on businesses through identity theft, Denial of Service (DoS) attacks which target specific corporate websites and take them down, etc. We are seeing increasing cooperation between virus writers and spammers. They are even using social engineering techniques: I'm sure you've seen at least one legitimate looking email from a 'bank' asking you to click on a link to verify your online banking credentials (this is called 'phishing').

Protect yourself

Don't open emails, and especially attachments, from people you don't know. Server-side email scanning is a solution that scans and cleanses your email of any viruses that may be attached, before they ever reach your in-box.

If an email contains a link, copy or type the link into your browser rather than click on it - you're less likely to be redirected to a fake site. Only download files from reputable, trusted sites. And forget all those free screensavers and wallpapers - it's not unusual for a nasty little Trojan or Spyware program to tag along for the ride.

A comprehensive anti-virus solution is one that covers all of your IT systems: your PC's, your servers, your gateways, your PDA's, your email. It should be updated frequently - more than once a day - with NEW virus definitions. It should be able to scan ALL of your computer system, not just a set of predefined file types. It should work automatically in the background.

Remember that new viruses are being released every day, so it is imperative that your anti-virus solution has the latest virus definitions to remain effective. Kaspersky Labs update their virus definitions database every hour, and so all of their anti-virus solutions offer the best protection from even the newest viruses.

About the author

Mark operates Microbe Pty Ltd. the leading Australian distributor of Kaspersky products in Australia. Kaspersky Labs are the award winning leaders in anti-virus solutions, renowned for their rapid response to new virus threats. Their antivirus database updates every hour. For more information on Kaspersky products visit http://www.kaspersky.com.au/