Cyber Hygiene 101:
How ABQ Businesses Can Lower Their Risk

When it comes to protecting your business from cyberthreats, the basics still matter—maybe more than ever. IBM’s 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report found that 82% of breaches involved data stored in the cloud, and most of them could have been prevented with simple, everyday safeguards.

Think of cyber hygiene like washing your hands: it’s not flashy, but it’s essential. Skip it, and you’re inviting trouble.

Here are four cyber hygiene must-haves that every small business in Albuquerque should keep locked down:

1. Lock Down Your Network

Encrypt sensitive data, use a firewall, and protect your Wi-Fi with a hidden SSID (so your network name isn’t visible). Your router should be password-protected—and not with “1234” or your street address. If your team works remotely, make sure they’re using a secure VPN to connect.

2. Train Your Team to Be Your First Line of Defense

Most breaches start with human error. Train your employees on strong password practices, multifactor authentication, safe internet use, and secure handling of sensitive data. Show them how to spot phishing emails and avoid shady downloads—skills that could save your business thousands.

3. Back Up Like Your Business Depends on It (Because It Does)

A breach, crash, or ransomware attack shouldn’t mean the end of the road. Back up critical files—documents, spreadsheets, HR and financial records, databases—regularly, and automate it if possible. Keep backups in the cloud or offsite on a secure server.

4. Give Access Only to Those Who Need It

The fewer people with access to sensitive data, the better. Grant employees access only to the systems they need, and never let one person have the keys to everything. Restrict admin privileges to trusted IT staff and remove former employees from your systems immediately.

A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way

Yes, setting all this up takes time and effort—but it’s nothing compared to the cost, disruption, and stress of a cyberattack.

Not sure where your vulnerabilities are?

We offer a free Cybersecurity Risk Assessment for qualified Albuquerque small businesses. We’ll pinpoint your risks, find gaps in your defenses, and give you a clear, actionable plan to strengthen your cyber hygiene—fast.

👉 Schedule a FREE 10-minute call to get started.