My heart breaks each time I read about employee layoffs and shutdowns in retail. I think about business owners who, without suffice capital, take unprecedented measures for survival amid COVID-19. The pandemic leaves us on edge while waiting for the calamity that is yet to come. Thankfully, digital platforms allow us to support each other during these hardships, as I’ve observed my network start positive social movements and share entrepreneurial resources via email.
Yesterday, I called into a ZOOM conference hosted by panelists with the Tory Burch Foundation. The Foundation “Fellows” shared advice on
proactive solutions to juggling business operations with pressing issues. In
times of paranoia, how do you protect yourself from cybercriminals, and how do you establish trust with colleagues who now rely on their private networks to work remotely?
Though we face new adversities and fears, panelists at yesterday’s virtual conference reassured us that there are pragmatic
tactics to prepare for future damage by COVID-19. Note: regulations vary by state.
Intellectual Property Protection
First, take precautions with digital campaigns to avoid violating Intellectual Property laws. When reallocating digital marketing spend, understand the terms of service to know if your information is publicized and whether trade secrets or consumer information are at risk to third-party access.
When financially stable to produce new content, avoid Intellectual Property infringements with competitors and then obtain protection for your ideas. Additionally, educate your team on content that the company versus independent contractors takes ownership of if shifting organization within your formal structure.
Antivirus Software
Our reliance to communicate via the internet makes us more vulnerable than ever to hackers. To protect yourself from cybercriminal activity, install nationally-recognized antivirus software that recognizes malware on the web.
Encyrption and Cybersecurity
Disk encryption helps prevent data theft but be careful to assume that the encryption protects copied content. Make sure to backup devices frequently and install monitoring software to track activity. Also, a VPN helps conceal your identity!
With style,
Sar
