Imagine your business is a sturdy fortress, protecting your hard-earned success and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. Every day, you stand guard at the gates, ensuring that no harm befalls your empire.
But lurking in the shadows are cybercriminals armed with sophisticated weapons of destruction – malware, ransomware, phishing attacks – ready to breach your defenses and steal everything you hold dear.
In today’s digital age, small businesses like yours are prime targets for these nefarious hackers. They may see you as an easy mark, lacking larger corporations’ robust cybersecurity measures. The consequences of a successful cyberattack can be devastating – financial loss, reputational damage, even bankruptcy.
That’s why safeguarding your business against cyber threats is not just important; it’s absolutely essential. By understanding the risks you face and implementing robust security measures, you can fortify your defenses and protect what matters most.
This article will explore why cybersecurity is vital for small businesses like yours. We will delve into the impact of cyberattacks and examine why hackers specifically target smaller enterprises. By assessing your business risk and staying vigilant against emerging threats, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your operations in an increasingly dangerous digital landscape.
Why Is Cyber Security for Small Businesses Necessary?
You need to prioritize cybersecurity because 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses. As a business owner, it’s crucial for you to understand the importance of protecting your company’s sensitive information and customer data.
Cybersecurity is not something you can afford to ignore or put on the back burner. Small businesses are often seen as easier targets by hackers due to their limited resources and sometimes lack of robust security measures. However, the consequences of a cyber attack can be devastating for both your business and your customers.
Not only could you lose valuable data, but your reputation could also be tarnished, resulting in a loss of trust from your customers. Implementing strong cybersecurity practices is the best solution to mitigate these risks.
Make sure all devices connected to your network have up-to-date antivirus software installed and regularly update it. Use complex passwords that are difficult for hackers to guess, and consider using two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.
Educate yourself and your employees about common cyber threats like phishing emails or malicious links. Regularly backup important data in case of an attack or system failure. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cyber-attacks and protect your business and customers’ interests.
How Do Cyberattacks Impact Small Businesses?
Imagine the chaos that can ensue when cyberattacks strike, wreaking havoc on unsuspecting small businesses and leaving them vulnerable to significant financial losses. As a small business owner, it’s crucial to understand the impact of these attacks and take necessary precautions.
Cybersecurity incidents can have far-reaching consequences for businesses of all sizes, but they can be particularly devastating for small enterprises with limited resources. Firstly, the cost of recovering from a cyberattack can be astronomical.
Not only do you have to invest in fixing the damage caused by the attack, but you may also face legal fees and potential fines if customer data is compromised. These expenses can cripple your finances and even force you to shut down your operations.
Moreover, an attack can erode customer trust and damage your reputation. Small businesses often rely heavily on word-of-mouth referrals and positive online reviews. A cybersecurity breach can tarnish your image as customers become wary of sharing their personal information with you.
To protect your business against such threats, it’s essential to implement robust cybersecurity measures. Invest in up-to-date antivirus software, firewalls, and encryption tools. Regularly update your systems and educate your employees about best practices for online security.
Cyberattacks pose a grave threat to small businesses’ survival due to their limited resources and the potential financial losses incurred. By prioritizing cybersecurity defenses and taking proactive measures to safeguard sensitive data, you can mitigate risks and ensure the safety of your business.
Why Do Cyberhackers Attack Small Businesses?
Curious why cyberhackers specifically target smaller enterprises? Let’s uncover their motivations and tactics in this high-stakes game of digital warfare.
While it may seem counterintuitive to attack small businesses, they’re attractive targets for cyberhackers due to their often limited resources and weaker cybersecurity measures. These malicious actors exploit the fact that many small businesses lack robust antivirus software and comprehensive cybersecurity plans.
One tactic cyberhackers employ is ransomware attacks, where they encrypt vital data and demand a ransom for its release. Small businesses may be more likely to pay the ransom as they can’t afford prolonged downtime or loss of critical information.
Another common tactic used by cyberhackers is social engineering attacks, such as phishing attacks. They exploit human vulnerabilities by tricking employees into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.
Unlike larger corporations, small businesses often don’t have dedicated IT departments or security personnel, making them easier targets. Moreover, these hackers know that smaller enterprises often collaborate with larger organizations; thus, they can infiltrate valuable networks through less secure small business systems.
To protect your small business from cyber threats, investing in reliable antivirus software and implementing strong security measures is crucial. Educating employees about potential risks and implementing strict protocols can also help prevent social engineering attacks. By prioritizing small business cybersecurity, you can safeguard your company’s sensitive information and ensure its long-term success.
How Do You Assess Your Risk?
Feeling uncertain about the level of risk your enterprise is exposed to in the digital world? How can you accurately assess your business risk and protect yourself from potential cyber threats?
Conducting a thorough risk assessment is crucial to understanding your security posture and identifying any security vulnerabilities that could make your business vulnerable to cyberattacks. Start by evaluating your current cybersecurity practices. Are you implementing strong passwords, regularly updating software, and training employees on best practices?
Assess whether you have any additional security obligations based on industry regulations or customer requirements. Consider the impact of a data breach on your business growth plans. A successful attack could lead to reputational damage, financial loss, and legal consequences.
Identify the valuable assets within your organization that need protection, such as customer data or intellectual property. Engage with cybersecurity professionals who can help you conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. They can identify potential weaknesses in your systems and provide recommendations for improvement.
Regularly reassess your business risk as new threats emerge and technologies evolve. By taking proactive steps to assess your business risk, you can better protect yourself from cyber threats and ensure your company’s and its stakeholders’ safety. Don’t wait until it’s too late – start today!
What Cyberattacks To Be Aware Of
To protect yourself from potential cyber threats, be vigilant and watch out for various types of cyberattacks that could harm your enterprise. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to cybersecurity breaches, as they often lack the resources and expertise to implement robust security measures.
Stay alert for malicious code or software that can infiltrate your systems and cause significant damage. Unauthorized access to sensitive information is another common attack method, so ensure you have strong passwords and encryption protocols in place.
Financial files are a prime target for cybercriminals, so keep a close eye on any suspicious activity related to your financial transactions. Phishing attacks, where hackers use deceptive emails or websites to trick you into revealing personal information, are also prevalent in today’s digital landscape. Train your employees to recognize these scams and avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments.
Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common, where hackers encrypt your data and demand payment in exchange for its release. Regularly back up your data and ensure it is securely stored off-site to mitigate the impact of such an attack.
By staying informed about the different types of cyberattacks and implementing strong cybersecurity measures, you can safeguard your small business against potential threats and maintain the safety of your valuable information.
Cybersecurity Best Practices To Protect Your Business
Now that you know the cyberattacks to look out for, let’s focus on cybersecurity best practices to protect your small business. Implementing these practices will help safeguard your sensitive data and ensure the security of your operations.
One crucial step is to create strong passwords for all your accounts, including email, online banking, and social media. Make sure they’re unique and contain a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Additionally, enable multifactor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification before granting access.
While larger businesses may have dedicated IT departments, it’s equally important for small business owners to prioritize cybersecurity. Regularly update all software and operating systems to patch any vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.
Secure your wireless access points with strong passwords or use enterprise-level security protocols such as WPA2. Limit administrative privileges to only those who require them and regularly review user access rights.
Consider using security apps recommended by cybersecurity professionals to monitor network activity in real time and detect any suspicious behavior.
Remember, protecting your small business from cyber threats is an ongoing effort that requires constant vigilance. Following these best practices can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime.
Train All Employees
Implementing comprehensive employee training programs in security principles can significantly enhance your organization’s overall cyber defense posture. Ensuring that your employees are well-versed in cybersecurity training is crucial for small businesses, as they often lack the resources and expertise to combat common threats effectively.
Regular security awareness training empowers your staff to proactively identify and respond to potential risks.
Start by educating your employees on basic security practices, such as creating strong passwords and avoiding suspicious emails or websites. Train them on securing their business computers and personal devices, emphasizing the importance of regular software updates and antivirus protection.
Additionally, teach your employees about common threats like phishing attacks or social engineering tactics cybercriminals use. Encourage them to exercise caution when sharing sensitive information online or accessing company data remotely.
Investing time and resources into employee cybersecurity training creates a culture of security within your organization. This helps protect sensitive customer data and safeguards critical business information from potential breaches or ransomware attacks.
Remember, cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. By empowering your employees with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize and mitigate cyber risks, you strengthen the overall resilience of your small business against evolving threats in today’s digital landscape.
Protect Networks, Computers, and Information
One interesting statistic to consider is that in 2020 there was a 350% increase in ransomware attacks globally, highlighting the urgent need for organizations to protect their information, computers, and networks from cyber-attacks.
As a small business owner, you must take proactive measures to safeguard your valuable assets. Here are some important steps you can take:
- Implement cybersecurity programs: Invest in robust antivirus software and firewalls to protect your systems from malicious threats.
- Secure mobile devices: Ensure that all mobile devices your employees use have strong passwords and encryption enabled. Regularly update these devices’ operating systems and applications to patch any vulnerabilities.
- Safeguard files and accounts: Use strong passwords for all accounts and encourage your employees to do the same. Regularly back up important files and store them securely offline or on cloud-based platforms with proper access controls.
Incorporating these practices into your cybersecurity strategy can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks. Additionally, consider seeking professional cybersecurity services tailored for small businesses.
Every day brings new challenges in the digital world, so staying vigilant is essential for maintaining a safe online environment for your business.
Always Use Firewall Security for Your Internet
To enhance the protection of your valuable assets, make sure that your internet connection is fortified with firewall security. A firewall acts as a barrier between your small business network and the vast world of the internet, protecting your information from potential cyber threats.
By implementing a firewall, you create an additional layer of defense against unauthorized access and malicious software.
Firewalls are especially crucial for small businesses because they often become cyberattack targets. Hackers exploit vulnerabilities in unprotected networks to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. However, establishing a secure perimeter around your corporate network can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to such attacks.
One key aspect to consider is using a cloud-based firewall solution. This allows you to protect your on-premises computers and any devices accessing your network remotely or through public networks. Additionally, midsize businesses can benefit from setting up virtual private networks (VPNs), which provide encrypted connections when accessing corporate resources remotely.
Implementing firewall security for your internet connection is essential in safeguarding your small business from cyberattacks. By fortifying this entry point into your network and utilizing additional measures such as cloud-based firewalls and VPNs, you can effectively protect your valuable assets from malicious actors seeking unauthorized access or control over sensitive information.
Create a Mobile Device Action Plan
Creating a mobile device action plan is like building a sturdy shield that protects your digital world while on the move. In today’s interconnected world, it’s crucial to take steps to ensure the security of your personal devices and sensitive information.
One important aspect of this plan is utilizing password managers. These tools can help you create strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and store them securely so you don’t have to remember them all. It’s also essential to have a master password that unlocks the password manager itself.
Another key element of your mobile device action plan should be staying up-to-date with security updates. Regularly updating your devices’ operating systems and applications ensures that you have the latest patches and protection against known vulnerabilities.
For extra protection, consider implementing additional security measures such as multi-factor authentication or encryption. By following these guidelines and incorporating these keywords into your mobile device action plan, you can build a robust defense against cyber threats while on the go.
Backup All Important Business Data
Don’t overlook the importance of making backup copies of your vital business data and information, as it could be a lifesaver in times of unexpected digital disasters. Losing important data can have devastating consequences for small businesses, so taking the necessary precautions is crucial.
Regularly backing up your data ensures that even if your devices are compromised or damaged, you can still retrieve and restore your valuable information.
There are various tools available to help you make backup copies of your data. One common type is cloud storage services, which allow you to store your files securely on remote servers. These services often offer encryption and other security measures to protect your data from unauthorized access.
Using secure programs for processing documents and handling sensitive information is also important. Look for software that has built-in encryption and other security features to minimize the risk of cyberattacks or theft.
In addition to backups, consider utilizing antifraud services that provide monitoring and reporting procedures. These services can help identify any suspicious activities or potential threats to your business’s data security.
Remember, making backup copies of your important business data is not something you should put off until later. It’s essential to maintaining the safety and integrity of your operations in today’s digital world. So take action now to safeguard against unexpected disasters by implementing a regular backup routine using secure tools and programs.
Control All Access to Your Computers
Imagine yourself as the master of your own castle, where you hold the key to protecting your kingdom’s treasures. One way to do this is by controlling physical access to your computers and creating user accounts for each employee, ensuring that only trusted individuals can enter and interact with your digital realm.
By taking these steps, you’re fortifying the walls of your small business cybersecurity.
Controlling physical access means implementing measures like locked doors and security systems to prevent unauthorized entry into areas where your computers are located. This ensures that only those who have been granted permission can physically approach and interact with sensitive information.
Additionally, it’s crucial to create separate user accounts for each employee. This allows you to assign unique login credentials and limit access privileges based on job responsibilities. Having user accounts for each employee helps track their activities and prevents unauthorized individuals from gaining control over critical aspects of your business operations.
By assigning specific permissions to employees’ accounts, you can ensure that they have access only to the resources necessary for their roles.
Remember, in this contextually relevant world of small business cybersecurity, controlling physical access and creating user accounts serve as an impenetrable barrier against potential threats. So take charge of your castle’s defenses today!
Secure Wi-Fi Networks
Fortify your digital fortress by ensuring the security of your Wi-Fi networks, protecting your kingdom from potential intruders. Securing your Wi-Fi networks is crucial for maintaining a strong defense against cyber threats.
It’s not just about keeping outsiders out; it’s about safeguarding sensitive data and preserving the integrity of your small business.
Start by changing the default passwords on all network devices to secure your Wi-Fi networks effectively. Use strong, unique passwords that are difficult to guess. Regularly update these passwords to stay one step ahead of any potential breaches.
Consider implementing Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA2) encryption to protect your network traffic from unauthorized access. This provides an additional layer of security, making it harder for hackers to intercept and exploit sensitive information.
Furthermore, restrict access to your Wi-Fi network by enabling a firewall and setting up a separate guest network for visitors. This will prevent unauthorized users from accessing confidential data stored on your main network.
Remember that cybersecurity matters should be integrated into the culture of your organization. Encourage employees to practice good cybersecurity habits, such as using strong passwords and being cautious when clicking on suspicious links or opening email attachments.
Investing in cybersecurity should be prioritized within your budget allocation, as common cybersecurity threats can have devastating consequences for small businesses. Stay proactive and connected with the larger cybersecurity community to stay informed about emerging threats and best practices.
By securing your Wi-Fi networks effectively and fostering a culture of cybersecurity, you can greatly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber-attacks that could potentially cripple or even destroy your small business.
Safeguard Payment Systems
To ensure your financial transactions’ safety, ensure you’re employing best practices on payment cards, such as regularly monitoring your account for any suspicious activity.
Did you know that in 2020, credit card fraud accounted for $11 billion in losses globally? Protecting your business from becoming a victim of such fraudulent activities is crucial.
When it comes to payment systems and credit card security, there are several measures you can take to safeguard your business. Firstly, only work with reputable payment processors and avoid storing customers’ credit card information unless absolutely necessary.
Regularly update your payment systems with the latest security patches to mitigate any vulnerabilities.
Another important practice is to implement strong authentication methods for online payments. Utilize two-factor authentication or biometric verification whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Furthermore, educate your employees about the importance of credit card security and train them on how to handle sensitive information securely. Encourage them to report any suspicious activity immediately.
By implementing these best practices on payment cards, you can minimize the risk of financial loss due to fraud and protect both your customers’ trust and your business growth.
Remember, investing in a secure payment system is an investment in the future success of your company.
Do Not Allow Employees To Install Any Software
By controlling employee access to sensitive data and restricting their authority to install software, you can significantly enhance your company’s cybersecurity measures and safeguard against potential breaches. Here are three key steps you should take:
- Limit access to sensitive information: Grant access to human resources files and other sensitive data only to employees who require it for their job responsibilities. Implement strict user permissions and regularly review and update them as necessary.
- Follow industry standards: Stay informed about the latest industry standards for employee access management and software installation restrictions. By aligning your practices with these standards, you can ensure that your security measures are up-to-date and effective.
- Restrict authority for software installation: Give administrative privileges for installing software only to key personnel who need it for their roles. This prevents unauthorized installations that could introduce vulnerabilities in your system.
Implementing these measures minimizes the risk of internal threats caused by employees with malicious intent or unintentional errors. Additionally, limiting the authority to install software reduces the chances of unknowingly introducing programs with weaker security measures.
Remember, basic security software isn’t enough in today’s cyber landscape. Take proactive steps like controlling employee access and restricting software installation authority to provide additional layers of protection against potential breaches and safeguard your small business from cyber threats.
Ensure Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication
Ensure your digital fortress remains impenetrable by fortifying your passwords and authentication methods, like building an unbreakable wall of security around your virtual kingdom.
Passwords are the first line of defense against cyber threats, so creating strong and unique passwords for all accounts is crucial. Avoid using common phrases or personal information that can be easily guessed. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
Additionally, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring users to provide multiple verification forms, such as a password and a fingerprint or a code sent to their mobile device. This greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if passwords are compromised.
Stay updated on the latest cyber threats, especially those related to business email compromise (BEC). Cybercriminals often use BEC attacks to trick employees into disclosing sensitive information or making fraudulent transactions. Regularly train your staff on how to identify phishing emails and other social engineering techniques.
Consider consulting with cybersecurity experts or firms who can assess your current security measures and help you develop effective cybersecurity policies within your budget. Remember that investing in proper protection is much more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of a successful attack.
Keep your digital kingdom safe by prioritizing strong passwords and robust authentication methods as part of your overall cybersecurity strategy.
Verify Third Parties
When choosing partners and vendors, verifying their commitment to strong security practices and protocols is essential. Protecting your small business from cyber threats goes beyond just securing your own systems; you must also ensure that third parties who deal with you are equally secure. Here are some tips to help you in this process:
- Demand a virtual private network (VPN): Ensure that any partner or vendor who accesses your company’s systems does so through a VPN. This adds an extra layer of encryption and protection, making it harder for hackers to intercept sensitive information.
- Choose service providers with robust cybersecurity measures: Look for partners and vendors who have implemented comprehensive security measures, such as regular vulnerability assessments and employee training programs. This ensures they take cybersecurity seriously and reduces the risk of data breaches.
- Consider the attractiveness of your partners’ targets: Cybercriminals often target businesses through their less secure third-party partners. Assess the attractiveness of your partners’ data and systems to determine if they could be potential entry points for hackers.
- Require proof of corporate endpoint security product: Ask your partners or vendors to provide proof that they’ve installed reputable corporate endpoint security products on their devices. This helps protect against malware infections and other cyber threats.
By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of cyber attacks by ensuring that all parties involved in your business model prioritize strong security practices when accessing business devices or sensitive information. Remember, safety should always be a top priority in today’s digital world.
The Current State of Cybersecurity
To stay ahead of cyber threats, it’s crucial for you to understand the ever-evolving landscape of digital security. Cybersecurity is constantly changing, and it’s important to keep up with the latest trends and threats in order to protect your small business from potential attacks.
One major concern is service attacks, where hackers overload a website or network with traffic, causing it to crash. These attacks can disrupt your operations and damage your reputation.
Additionally, there are bad actors out there who are constantly looking for vulnerabilities in systems to exploit for their own gain. They use different types of malware to infiltrate networks and steal sensitive information. Small businesses are often targeted because they may not have robust cybersecurity measures in place.
Human interaction also plays a role in cybersecurity, as employees need to be trained on how to spot fraudulent emails or phishing attempts. Establishing clear cybersecurity policies and implementing strong security measures such as firewalls, antivirus software, and regular data backups is important.
By staying informed and taking proactive steps toward securing your small business, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to cyber threats.
Planning and Assessment Tools
By utilizing planning and assessment tools, you can effectively navigate the ever-changing landscape of digital security and safeguard your valuable assets against cyber threats. Regularly assessing your company’s cybersecurity policies and evaluating your current cybersecurity posture is essential for keeping your business running smoothly without any interruptions caused by cyber-attacks.
Here are three key planning and assessment tools that can help you protect your small business:
- Cybersecurity risk assessments: Regular risk assessments allow you to identify potential vulnerabilities in your systems and processes. This helps you prioritize areas requiring immediate attention, ensuring you stay one step ahead of attackers.
- Incident response planning: Developing an incident response plan enables you to outline a clear course of action in the event of a cyber attack. This includes assigning responsibilities, establishing communication protocols, and implementing strategies to minimize damage and quickly recover from an attack.
- Threat intelligence monitoring: Keeping track of emerging threats and common attack vectors is crucial for proactive defense. By leveraging threat intelligence feeds, you can stay informed about the latest tactics used by hackers. This knowledge allows you to adapt your defenses accordingly, staying ahead of the increasing complexity of attacks.
Additionally, as more businesses rely on cloud computing services, it’s important to assess the security measures implemented by service providers. Understanding their security protocols ensures that your data remains protected even when stored on remote servers.
What Should You Look for In a Cybersecurity Company?
As you search for a cybersecurity company, be sure to seek out one that possesses the expertise and experience necessary to protect your valuable assets from digital threats. In today’s world, where cyber attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it’s crucial to have a reliable partner that can safeguard your small business against potential breaches.
There are a few key factors to consider when evaluating potential cybersecurity firms:
First, make sure the company offers comprehensive solutions that address the basics of cybersecurity today. Look for features like real-time threat intelligence and proactive monitoring capabilities. A strong candidate should also provide advanced endpoint security solutions such as Kaspersky Endpoint Security, which can detect and prevent malware infections.
Next, consider the track record of the cybersecurity company. Look for testimonials or case studies highlighting successful projects they’ve completed in the past. This will give you an idea of their experience and ability to handle different types of threats.
Assess whether the company stays up-to-date with emerging trends in the cybersecurity market. They should be aware of new threats and constantly update their systems accordingly.
Lastly, ensure that the chosen firm provides ongoing support and maintenance services. Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time fix; it requires constant vigilance and updates to stay ahead of evolving threats.
By considering these factors when selecting a cybersecurity company, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a robust defense system for your small business.
Take Action On Your Small Business Cybersecurity Today
Now that you understand the importance of cybersecurity for small businesses, it’s time to take action. Don’t underestimate the impact cyberattacks can have on your business.
Take the necessary steps to assess your risk and be vigilant against potential threats. Remember to ensure that any third parties you work with are also secure.
The state of cybersecurity is ever-evolving, so stay informed and utilize planning and assessment tools to protect your business effectively.
Choose a reliable cybersecurity company that meets your needs and invest in their services for added peace of mind.
Investigating the truth behind this theory allows you to securely empower yourself and your business to navigate the digital world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can small businesses assess their risk of cyberattacks?
To assess the risk of cyberattacks for your small business, start by evaluating your current security measures. Conduct a thorough analysis of vulnerabilities, train employees on best practices, and regularly update software to stay protected.
What are some common cyberattacks that small businesses should be aware of?
Are you aware of the common cyberattacks that can threaten your small business? Stay vigilant against phishing scams, malware infections, ransomware attacks, and social engineering tactics to protect your valuable data.
How can small businesses train their employees in security principles?
To train your employees in security principles, start by conducting regular security awareness training sessions. Teach them about password protection, phishing scams, and safe browsing habits. Encourage a culture of vigilance and provide resources for ongoing education.
What steps can small businesses take to protect their information, computers, and networks from cyber-attacks?
First, to protect your information, computers, and networks from cyber attacks, know that 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses. Safeguard your data by implementing strong passwords, regular software updates, and employee training on phishing scams and suspicious links.
How can small businesses ensure the security of their Wi-Fi networks?
To secure your Wi-Fi network, set a strong password, enable encryption like WPA2, regularly update router firmware, and hide your network’s name (SSID). Limit access to authorized users only and monitor for any suspicious activity.