A flimsy approach to online security is like leaving the back door of your shop wide open. The consequences can be damaging financially, while leaving your business in a difficult legal position and risking your reputation with customers. No matter what size the business, a security plan is a must. This doesn't have to be too time-consuming, but there are basics that you should cover.

First, review the current state of your security. Do you know enough about online security or might you have to get outside support? Think about your hardware, software, data and documents and then prioritise which ones you most want and need to protect.

Ensure you have a plan to prevent and respond to any online threats. Who will need to respond to data theft for example? Make sure that any staff you have are fully aware of this plan and what to do in the event of a security breach.

Many security companies offer business-specific online security software. Ensure your versions are up-to-date and carry out regular scans to ensure you are not vulnerable. Always review your pan every six to twelve months to ensure you are on top of everything.

You may be wondering how you will know if your security has been compromised. Well, if it’s a financial issue your bank will inform you. If it’s software or hardware related, your internet security provider will flag it up. If it’s a data breach it can be harder to spot, but tell-tale signs may include slower computers and accounts that lock you out.

The UK Government is doing all it can to help businesses be prepared, for instance with the Cyber Streetwise campaign. The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) has created a helpful publication explaining what small businesses need to know about cyber security, while this government webpage has many useful links to advice on this subject.

The State of the Small Business Employee Report of 2014 found that only 53% of companies had a security policy in place and to make matters worse, 24% of those who did have a policy in place admitted to violating it. These statistics not only have internal implications for businesses, but can also affect how they are perceived by customers.     

There are no drawbacks to improving your online security, but the only gripe businesses may have is that, as with most things, security comes at a cost. However, financial support is now available to reduce the cost of staying safe online in the shape of Get Online, Trade Online (GO-TO) vouchers.

The Get Online, Trade Online (GO-TO) voucher scheme is available to small and medium sized business based in Buckinghamshire who want to get online, trade online or promote online. The £150 GO-TO voucher has to be used towards a project worth a minimum total value £350 and can be used to contribute towards the costs of staying safe online, taking payment online, marketing to customers online, building a website, engaging with customers through social media (or towards a consultancy to help you), training your staff in digital skills and securing Customer Relationship Management software.

This is a time limited offer and we can only accept claims submitted before 20^th March 2015 but claims can be backdated to 24th November 2014. One voucher per company is available.

So, ensure your business is secure online with the help of a GO-TO voucher. To find out more about the scheme, including a list of digital suppliers who can help, please visit www.bbf.uk.com/business-support/do-more-online.

You can also access our handy guides and resources on topics from online finance, social media and cyber security by visiting our Do More Online web pages: www.bbf.uk.com/business-support/do-more-online/do-more-online-resources