Safety not only applies to your business, but also to the information of the donors who chose to trust your business. Breach of security can happen, especially when the business doesn’t have enough security measures. If the data are easily copied and stolen away, you can still make it difficult for data thieves to get what they want and secure your relationship with your business donors. Here’s how:
1. Establish Security Protocols Among Your Team
Online businesses are always at risk of hacking, phishing, and cyberattacks. Business data becomes vulnerable when your staff doesn’t know how to identify threats or prevent them from succeeding. It’s crucial to know your enemy first and research various security threats. Next is to improve security measures by using strong password strings, dual authentication steps, and data encryptions on financial information. You may hire a security professional who knows about keeping your business and donor data safe.
2. Keep Your Software Updated
Using business management software, such as Omnially, is a convenient way to run a business. It can simplify information tracking and offer integration with third-party programs. But, some tend to neglect update. Hackers can easily take advantage of such a careless disregard for enhanced digital security.
Software developers apply technical and organizational security measures to keep the information they receive safe. But, as a business using their services, it’s also your responsibility to operate the software in a secure environment.
3. Use A Secure Internet Connection
Donor information includes names and addresses, as well as sensitive information, such as credit card or bank details. These become at risk when your business database is accessed through a public network or wireless Internet.
Make use of a VPN or a virtual private network that conceals vital business data. Have remote workers use a VPN to work securely wherever they are. It’s also important to make use of a secure password string to keep hackers away.
4. Back Up Your Database
Any type of technology that stores information is at risk not only of cyberattacks, but also of viruses, systems errors, and natural disasters (floods, fires, and earthquakes). Even large corporations aren’t completely safe from computer systems going down. While such an event is inevitable, it can affect the business’s reputation and the customers’ trust.
Use the best backup software to keep copies of donor information, processes, and other vital information in your business. Keeping second storage filled with copies helps restore information to the primary hard drive after troubleshooting.
5. Only Retain Information You Need
What is the nature of the donor information in your database? Names, addresses, passwords, financial details, and emails are at risk of leakage. Hackers can steal donor identities or sell information to other businesses. Streamline the type of information you only need to keep in your business management software. You can offer a convenient online experience to your donors and only ask for minimal information in exchange for their contributions.
Conclusion
There are many types of information that you must protect in your database, including benefactors who believe in what you can offer. To retain them and their support, you must employ tight security measures and use them in daily business operations. Whether they work at the office or remote locations, you must have them protect their identities and avoid unsecure networks for work-related tasks. Ensuring that their information is safe makes donors linger longer to help support your business’ growth.