Protecting Business Operations from Online Risks

Online risks aren’t just about annoying pop-ups or spammy emails. Cyber threats can cripple businesses, big or small, if one’s not careful. But don’t worry—there are ways to protect yourself.

The Reality of Online Threats in 2025

Do you want to be in the news for the wrong reason, such as a data breach affecting millions of customers? AI-powered attacks, deepfake scams, and phishing schemes look scarily real. And with more businesses shifting online, the risks are only growing.

It isn’t just big corporations that are a target. Small and medium businesses are falling prey, too. These companies don’t have the same level of security in place, putting themselves in even more danger.

So, what can one do? Train to be a cybersecurity expert? Actually, no. But a solid game plan helps.

1) Lock Down Your Logins

First things first—your passwords. Everyone says this, but weak passwords are still the easiest way for hackers to break in. If your password is still “password123” or your business name followed by “2024,” we need to talk.

Here’s what you should do instead:

• Use a password manager (yes, they’re safe!) to generate and store strong passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. That extra step of verifying your identity? It’s worth it.
• Set up alerts for unusual login attempts—because catching shady activity early is half the battle.
• Consider using passphrases instead of passwords. For example, “PurpleMonkeyJumpingOnMars” is much harder to crack than a random word with numbers.

2) Update, Update, Update!

Software updates are annoying—we get it. But here’s one crucial note: they’re there because they must be. Outdated systems are like an unlocked door.

• Set your systems to auto-update whenever possible.
• Notice a security patch on your payment app? Don’t ignore it!
• If you’re using WordPress or another CMS, update your plugins.

3) Use Proxies to Keep Things Private

Yes, someone’s watching you whenever you’re online. Well, probably not. However, it’s important that you consider that possibility. That’s where proxies come in handy.

A proxy server’s position is interesting because it sits between you and the internet. It ensures that your IP address isn’t out in the open. And that matters a great deal for the following reasons:

• Prevents cyber snooping: Proxies keep hackers and competitors from tracking your online activity.
• Adds an extra security layer: They help protect sensitive data, especially if your team works remotely.
• Bypasses restrictions: If you need access to region-specific content or platforms, proxies help you get there safely.

Many online entrepreneurs use proxies to manage multiple accounts on platforms like eBay. If you’ve ever tried to run an eBay stealth account, you know that eBay tracks IP addresses. Without a proxy, managing multiple accounts can get you flagged or even banned. Proxies help keep operations running smoothly while minimizing detection risks.

4) Train Your Team (Because Human Error Is a Thing)

No fancy firewall or security software can protect your business if your employees click on phishing emails or use “qwerty” as their password. Cybersecurity training isn’t just for IT nerds—it’s for everyone.

• Teach your team how to spot phishing emails (weird links, urgent messages, sketchy attachments).
• Set clear guidelines for handling customer data.
• Run occasional security drills—yes, like fire drills but for online threats.
• Establish email verification policies to prevent falling for fake invoices or scams.

5) Backup Everything (Because Disaster Happens)

The worst thing has just happened – your business got hit with ransomware. It says pay up, or your files will remain locked forever! Backups are a lifesaver in this situation.

• Use cloud backups and external hard drives (because redundancy is key).
• Automate backups so you’re not relying on your memory.
• Regularly test your backups—don’t just assume they’re working.

6) Secure Your Online Transactions

If you’re selling products or services online, protecting payment data is non-negotiable. One security breach could ruin customer trust.

• Use secure payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, or Square.
• Never store sensitive customer payment information yourself—leave that to trusted platforms.
• Look for PCI DSS compliance (a security standard for handling card payments).

7) Monitor Your Online Reputation

Ever Googled your business name? If not, now’s a good time to start. Cybercriminals sometimes set up fake versions of real websites to scam customers or damage reputations.

• Set up Google Alerts for your business name.
• Check for unauthorized use of your brand or domain name.
• If you find fraudulent sites, report them ASAP to Google and relevant authorities.

Being Overly Cautious Is a Good Thing

Cybersecurity can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Start small—fix your passwords, enable 2FA, update your software. Then, work your way up to stronger security measures like proxies and employee training.

The key takeaway? Online risks aren’t going anywhere, but you can stay ahead of them.