Cyber Hygiene 101: Simple Steps Every Small Business Should Take Before Buying Cyber Insurance

If you run a small business, you’ve probably heard that cyber insurance is an essential part of protecting yourself from online threats. And it is. But here’s the truth: cyber insurance isn’t a magic shield — it’s part of a broader defence strategy that starts with something many businesses overlook: basic cyber hygiene.

Cyber hygiene refers to the everyday practices that keep your systems, data, and business operations secure. Just like washing your hands can prevent illness, good cyber hygiene helps prevent breaches, data loss, and expensive downtime. Better still? It can also help lower your cyber insurance premium or improve the likelihood your claim is approved if something goes wrong.

Here’s where to start.

1. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Passwords alone just aren’t enough anymore. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification — like a code sent to your phone or an app prompt — when logging into accounts.

🔐 Why it matters: Most breaches happen because of stolen or weak passwords. MFA dramatically reduces this risk.

💡 Insurer tip: Many cyber policies now require MFA on key systems as a condition of cover.

2. Keep Your Software and Devices Updated

Outdated systems are a goldmine for hackers. Software updates (especially security patches) fix vulnerabilities that attackers exploit.

💻 Why it matters: That pop-up reminding you to update your system? It could be the difference between safety and disaster.

🛠 What to update: Operating systems, web browsers, antivirus programs, firewalls, and even router firmware.

3. Regularly Back Up Your Data

Imagine losing every invoice, email, and customer record overnight. Without backups, you could be facing permanent data loss after a cyberattack or system failure.

📁 What to do: Set up automatic, encrypted backups to a secure cloud platform or offline storage. Test your backups regularly to make sure they work.

🔁 How often: Daily, at a minimum — especially if your business handles sensitive data or relies heavily on digital tools.

4. Train Your Team to Spot Cyber Threats

Even the best tech won’t help if your people accidentally click the wrong link. Human error is still the leading cause of data breaches.

📧 Key topics to cover:

• Phishing emails (fake emails trying to trick staff into giving up logins or clicking malicious links)

• Safe password habits

• What to do if something seems suspicious

🧠 Tip: Consider short, regular training sessions or simulated phishing tests to keep cyber awareness front of mind.

5. Use Strong, Unique Passwords (and a Password Manager)

Using the same password across platforms is like locking every door in your business with the same key. Once one is compromised, they all are.

🔑 What to do: Use a password manager like 1Password or LastPass to generate and store complex, unique passwords for each account.

🧩 Bonus tip: Avoid saving passwords in your browser — it’s convenient, but also risky.

6. Limit Access and Use Permissions Wisely

Not every staff member needs access to everything. Use the principle of least privilege — only give people access to the tools and data they need to do their job.

👥 Why it matters: If a hacker gains access through one staff account, tight access controls can limit how far they get.

🔒 Good practice: Use role-based permissions and revoke access immediately when someone leaves the business.

7. Install and Maintain Cyber Security Software

Firewalls, antivirus programs, and endpoint protection tools are the digital locks and alarms of your business. Make sure they’re not just installed, but updated and actively monitored.

🛡 Don’t forget: Small businesses are just as likely to be targeted by malware, spyware, and ransomware — often through everyday internet use.

Why This Matters for Cyber Insurance

When you apply for cyber insurance with Koviyo, we’ll ask a few simple questions about your current cyber setup. These steps aren’t just best practice — they could:

• Reduce your premiums (insurers love low-risk businesses)

• Improve your claim outcome (especially if you can show you took reasonable precautions)

  
  

Koviyo: Protection Starts with Prevention

At Koviyo, we believe good cyber hygiene should be second nature — and we’re here to help you get there. We offer cyber insurance designed for small businesses, plus tools and guidance to strengthen your cyber posture.

Your next step? Review your cyber hygiene, then get covered with confidence.

👉 Explore Koviyo Cyber Insurance today at koviyo.com.