The Federal Communications Commission unveiled an updated 2.0 version of its “Small Biz Cyber Planner,” as part of National Cybersecurity Month.
The enhanced cyber planner features new details about cyber insurance to mitigate interruptions to business and financial loss from cyber attacks, and best practices on avoiding spyware.
It also incorporates the immediate steps to take in case of infection, and recommendations on installing new software systems that enable users to remotely track and erase the hard drive of laptops and mobile devices in the event of theft.
Launched in 2011, the tool has already been used by nearly 10,000 businesses across the country to create customized cybersecurity plans.
New research by Symantec, an FCC Cybersecurity Outreach Partner, indicates that nearly 83 percent of U.S. small businesses have no cybersecurity protection plan.
Chairman Julius Genachowski urged all small business owners to take advantage of this valuable resource, and also announced new and renewed partnerships with public and private sector organizations, including Symantec, eBay, Visa, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the National Cyber Security Alliance, and others.
America’s small businesses are vital drivers of innovation, economic growth, and job creation – and they’re using the Internet more and more every day. While broadband is creating significant opportunities for small businesses, the cost of cyber attacks are a real concern,” said Genachowski. “We know that not having a plan leaves small businesses vulnerable to cyber attacks. The good news is that small business owners can take simple steps to protect themselves. By making a plan using the FCC’s updated Small Biz Cyber Planner, small businesses can quickly strengthen their online defenses.”
