Farm Operators Reminded the Importance of Cyber Security

October is National Cyber Security Month.  And the Better Business Bureau in Spokane is reminding small businesses, such as mom and pop farming operations to take cyber threats seriously.  The BBB’s Kristen Davis said more and more hackers are going after smaller outfit, because of a lack of protection and firewalls.  She said it’s important you stay vigilant on your security, updating software whenever needed and make sure your passwords are challenging.  Davis says you can also help yourself by not sharing personal information on a company or group social media account.

“There are some things that you want to make sure that when you post, you’re not making yourself vulnerable, whether it’s ‘the owner’s out of town this weekend’ or things lie that that can create opprotunties for people to take advantage of you.”

Davis said there are a variety of frauds, targeted towards small business.  She said it’s important that you train your staff to ask the right questions, and to be leery.

“Whether you have one person, or 15 people in your small business make sure you train them to not just answer those types of questions or direct those questions to one specific person that is keeping track of those things.”

For tips on keeping your business safe from cyber threats visit DHS's Website.

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