Stupid Simple Security Tip # 18 – Always be Prepared
“A byte of prevention is worth a gig of cure”…is what Ben Franklin might say if he were still alive and publishing today (think Bezos, with slightly more hair).
OK, the imagery is odd, but the adage remains sound – and is especially relevant when it comes to getting hacked.
Whether facing cybersecurity threats, equipment failure, or improbable scenarios (like a pandemic), the most critical steps for protecting your business are those taken well ahead of a crisis.
By investing minimum time now, you can save significant headaches later – let me show you how.
Every firm (regardless of size- yes solos, I’m talking to you) needs an IT security plan that establishes expectations, anticipates challenging scenarios, and lays out best-practice responses.
That’s not just a recommendation but a requirement for regulatory compliance in certain fields of practice. Yet, according to the ABA, only about 40% of solo practitioners have such a plan in place.
If you’re part of the plan-less 60%, don’t delay any longer – enlist a consultant who understands your system, and it won’t be a scary or complicated process.
The National Institute of Standards in Technology suggests that all IT plans feature a four-part framework:
- Preparation: Anticipating issues, prescribing crisis protocol
- Detection: Defining critical factors for catching problems early
- Containment: Enacting protocol measures to counter the issue quickly
- Assessment: Post-incident evaluation of damage, initiation of remedies, and diagnosing possible improvements
While these general steps remain constant, their elements change according to equipment, software, firm size, and practice.
That’s why we provide a set of customizable templates that can be quickly tailored to any situation and include this as part of our Security+ program.
IT contingency plans are necessary for the same reason as fire drills, so everyone understands their roles and requirements BEFORE stress clouds judgment and seconds are in short supply.
Having procedures in place provides peace of mind now, prevents panic later, and could save data, clients and careers.
Like a spare tire, you’ll hopefully never need it…but man, are you screwed without it.
That’s why the Boy Scouts tell us to “Always Be Prepared”… take their advice, make a security plan, and maybe earn that technology merit badge.
In fact, we already have a plan (if not a badge) ready for you.
