--- title: What Are the Best Ways to Protect Customer Data? description: There are several effective ways companies can protect customer data. Find out more about what to do by checking out this guide. image: https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/hubfs/Blog%20image%203.jpg --- [![EnvisionIT Solutions Blog Logo](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/hubfs/eits%20blog%20logo.svg "EnvisionIT Solutions Blog Logo")](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/) - Blog Topics - [IT Security](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/it-security) - [VoIP Phones](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/voip-phones) - [IT Outsourcing](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/it-outsourcing) - [Business Continuity](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/business-continuity) - [Tech Tips](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/tech-tips) - [Cloud Tech](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/cloud-tech) - [Web Design](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/web-design) - [Website Security](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/website-security) - [Web Tips](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/web-tips) - [SEO](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/seo) - [Marketing](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/marketing) - [Graphic Design](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/graphic-design) - [⚲ Search](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/search) - ¦ - [IT Support](http://www.envisionitsolutions.com/it-services/) - [Business Continuity](https://www.envisionitsolutions.com/business-continuity/) - [VoIP Phones](https://www.envisionitsolutions.com/voip-select/) - [Web Design](http://www.envisionitsolutions.com/website-design/) [☰](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/what-are-the-best-ways-to-protect-customer-data#mobile) - [Tech Tips](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/tech-tips) - [Business Technology](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/business-technology) - [IT Outsourcing](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/it-outsourcing) - [General IT](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/general-it) ## [Is Your Technology Helping Your Team - or Holding Them Back?](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/is-your-technology-helping-your-team-or-holding-them-back) **Cody Osborn** | Jul 6, 2026 8:39:14 AM   - [IT Security](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/topic/it-security) ### [What Are the Best Ways to Protect Customer Data?](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/what-are-the-best-ways-to-protect-customer-data) - - - [Back to posts](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com) # December 18, 2023 # What Are the Best Ways to Protect Customer Data? # What Are the Best Ways to Protect Customer Data? ![Blog image 3](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20image%203.jpg?width=1600&height=900&name=Blog%20image%203.jpg) In the digital age, small business data protection is an essential expense for every industry.  Unfortunately, [60% of businesses](https://www.inc.com/joe-galvin/60-percent-of-small-businesses-fold-within-6-months-of-a-cyber-attack-heres-how-to-protect-yourself.html) fail after one data breach, and they are the favorite target for attackers.   It makes sense when you think about it. Less security than Apple, but a higher reward than a random person. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your business from the worst. Here's what you need to know about protecting customer data in 2023!   Related Post: [Combating Common IT Security Threats](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/combating-common-it-security-threats) ## Educate Staff The more often staff change their passwords, the more they understand how to spot phishing scams, and the more they understand how security works, the better. It doesn't matter how much *you *know about cybersecurity. If your team isn't on the same page, then your systems are still vulnerable.   Staff should know not to use unsecured devices on your network, not to work on unsecured networks, and how to spot and report suspicious activity. The more they know, the better! ## Use a VPN For Remote Workers If you have a remote staff or employees that travel regularly, use a virtual private network (VPN). This will ensure that everybody is using the same security systems. Otherwise, these extra variables could keep sensitive customer data vulnerable to attacks. ## Update Your Software Make sure that your anti-malware, web browsers, and other applications connected to the internet remain up to date. While you may find the updates annoying, they keep up to date with the latest threats. Remember, these threats adapt with remarkable speed, so keeping up is your best defense.   [![FREE Network Assessment - Small Business IT Support](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/345825/62c18d3f-3369-4609-a386-e1be7b342993.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/345825/62c18d3f-3369-4609-a386-e1be7b342993) ## Regulate Passwords Staff should change their passwords every three to six months for the best security.   Remember, a [single compromised password](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-06-04/hackers-breached-colonial-pipeline-using-compromised-password) led to the Colonial Pipeline Breach in 2021, which almost halted the nation's economy. Therefore, it's important to time out passwords on systems that hold sensitive data. They should also contain letters, capital letters, numbers, and symbols.    Even better, consider using two-factor authentication when possible. Adding an extra layer of security can make a world of difference for your systems. ## Hire Managed IT Services When it comes down to it, there's no better protection than managed [IT security services](https://envisionitsolutions.com/managed-it-services/).  Investing in cybersecurity can save all businesses, which are becoming greater targets by the minute.   Unfortunately, there will never be software as powerful as trained IT professionals when it comes to stopping security breaches. Fortunately, it doesn't have to break the bank! ## Protect Your Customer Data Today Now that you know how to protect your customer data, don't wait. The longer you go without the security systems you need, the longer your sensitive data remains at risk.   Comprehensive coverage is just as important for IT as it is for any other aspect of your business, so secure your systems today! Stay updated with our latest tips for your business, and don’t hesitate to [contact us](https://envisionitsolutions.com/contact-us/) with any questions or for help with your strategy! ![Kevin Gray](https://blog.envisionitsolutions.com/hubfs/kevin-author.jpg) ###### ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Kevin Gray Hello! I am the Managing Principal @ EnvisionIT Solutions. | Technology Expert | Author | Speaker | Small & Medium Business IT Support - We founded EnvisionIT Solutions in 2007 to provide IT services and support for business owners/CEOs who value the necessity of technology to drive their success and growth. 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