Top Five Tips for Protecting SMB Endpoint Devices

Australian small and mid-sized businesses (SMB) are becoming more aware of the increasing need to secure and protect their IT devices from exposure. Endpoint devices, such as mobile phones, PDAs, desktops, servers and laptops that are vital to a business’ operations are being targeted by electronic attacks designed to compromise and steal company data. Threats are becoming more sophisticated and targeted toward these endpoint devices and at the same time, as many Australians take on a ‘sea’ or ‘tree change’, they are demanding increased flexibility and access into the network via remote, VPN, Web-based or telecommuting devices. When you add regulatory compliance mandates to the equation, SMBs are finding they must scramble to implement, monitor, and enforce controls that protect these critical IT devices.

How can SMBs protect themselves and their customers? The following five tips for securing endpoints will help build a strong defense against the increasing stream of electronic attacks and threats:

1. Use Layered Security

Deploy defense-in-depth strategies for employees and other end users, including an integrated endpoint security solution and security patch updates. Antivirus definitions and intrusion prevention signatures must be updated regularly, and all desktops, laptops, and servers should also be updated with the necessary security patches from the operating system vendor. Consider deploying a personal firewall to help control network traffic to the endpoint device. Also, make sure to enable the security settings on Web browsers and disable file sharing.

Additionally, teach users to develop strong passwords with at least eight characters and a combination of numbers, letters, and special characters. Change all passwords every 45-60 days to make it more difficult for intruders to access your data.

2. Implement a Network Access Control Solution

All network-connected computers and inbound/outbound traffic should be monitored for signs of unauthorised entry and malicious activity. Ensure any infected computers are removed from the network and disinfected as soon as possible. Also, create and enforce policies that identify and restrict applications that can access the network.

To ensure they have the latest protection, SMB’s should apply operating system and security software updates and patches as soon as they are released. In order to protect against successful exploitation of Web browser vulnerabilities, upgrade all browsers to the latest versions.

3. Stay Informed

Several companies publish reports that help define the threat landscape for SMBs. These reports can be found on the various company’s websites or through online searches. This is a great way to stay informed about the threat landscape so you know what you’re up against.

Spam is the leading source of malware (‘malicious software’) entering networks today. Spam not only diminishes productivity, it also puts a strain on storage and bandwidth requirements. Deploy antispam technologies at the mail gateway to proactively protect your environment.

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