Help! I just got hacked! What can I do?
If your small business has been hacked, come talk to us. Otherwise, here's what you can do:
Assess the situation: Figure out how bad the hack is and which systems and data are affected. Disconnect compromised systems from the network.
Contain the breach: Separate the affected systems to stop the hacker from causing more damage. Shut down servers, disable compromised accounts, or disconnect from the internet.
Notify authorities: Report the incident to the police or a cybercrime unit if it's serious. They can guide you and start an investigation.
Get help from a cybersecurity expert: Hire a reliable cybersecurity firm to investigate the breach, find vulnerabilities, and help with recovery. They'll advise you on securing your systems.
Change passwords and credentials: Reset passwords for affected accounts and systems. Use strong, unique passwords and consider adding extra security measures like two-factor authentication.
Scan for malware and vulnerabilities: Use antivirus and anti-malware software to scan your systems for any malicious software. Keep your software updated to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Inform affected parties: If customer data was compromised, follow data protection laws and let those customers know about the breach. Be clear and honest with them.
Improve security measures: Review your security practices and add more safeguards. This could include firewalls, encryption, regular backups, employee training, and an incident response plan.
Monitor and learn: Stay vigilant, watch for suspicious activity, and keep up with the latest security news. Learn from the incident to improve your defenses.
Remember, each hack is different, so adjust your response accordingly. Consult us whether you need technical or legal advice.