At this time of year, we’re all aware of the security risks associated with online shopping, from fake websites to fraud, but the risks to your business online are present all year round, particularly if you share data over the Internet.
With that in mind, let’s identify some persistent and common risks to exchanging data online:
Unencrypted connections
Using open (usually public) WiFi networks and/or insecure methods of data transfer like email and FTP leave you and your data exposed. Why? Because these connections are usually unencrypted and therefore visible and accessible to others, meaning that anyone can eavesdrop on your business’s data. Your business is then vulnerable to further risk by the eavesdropper: data theft, cyber-attacks, and viruses to name a few.
Theft
As mentioned above, if your connection is hacked, your business is open to all kinds of theft. IP (intellectual property) theft could result in loss of revenue and even compromise your business’s reputation.
Suspect software
While it’s no secret that file-sharing software packages are freely available to download, the fact that they could be malicious attempts to infect your PC are well-hidden. Executable files (files that have the .exe extension) are notorious for their ability to easily disguise viruses. Even if a particular file-sharing software is genuine, you sometimes need to install additional plugins – that require updating regularly – in order for it to work, such as Java.
Wrong person, wrong file, wrong version
Online data exchange also poses other risks: what if you accidently send the wrong file to the wrong person? With traditional file-sharing options, revoking a transaction is impossible. Data in the wrong hands is not only embarrassing, but also potentially a privacy breach in itself if the file in question is of a personal nature.
How can you avoid these risks?
Fortunately, MX has been designed to overcome these common risks and many more. Here’s how:
- A fully-encrypted connection – preventing your business’s exposure to cyber-attacks and theft
- No need to install software – MX is HTML5-based, so it works directly on the Internet browser of your choice
- Complete control of your file – granting you the ability to revoke a file, as well as limited specific user access if necessary
Although the office may be quietening down, the online threats to your business aren’t – so ensure all your security solutions are working and up to date to protect your data effectively throughout the festive period.
For the new year, make it your business’s security goal to ensure your data exchange is as safe, simple and speedy as possible.
For a free 30 day trial visit us at www.mymxdata.com