When small businesses hear the term “security policies,” they often picture 100-page manuals, consultants, and bureaucracy.
But the truth is: you only need three simple rules to start.
These aren’t about red tape. They’re about protecting your data and keeping people accountable.
1. Access & Password Policy
Why it matters: Most breaches start with stolen or reused passwords.
Simple rules to set:
- Use a password manager for all accounts.
- Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Remove access immediately when someone leaves.
Example: One SMB discovered that an ex-employee still had access to client files months after leaving. A simple rule — “disable accounts on exit” — would have closed the gap.
2. Device & Update Policy
Why it matters: Outdated laptops and phones are easy targets for attackers.
Simple rules to set:
- Enable automatic updates on all devices.
- Require screen lock with PIN/password/biometrics.
- Encrypt laptops and drives.
Example: A lost laptop with unencrypted storage exposed sensitive contracts. If encryption had been mandatory, the data would have stayed safe.
3. Backup & Recovery Policy
Why it matters: Ransomware and accidental deletions happen. Without backups, downtime can kill a small business.
Simple rules to set:
- Back up important files daily to a secure cloud storage and an offline storage device.
- Test restores at least once a quarter.
- Keep backups separate from production systems.
Example: A small company hit by ransomware discovered its “backups” hadn’t worzed for months. Testing them regularly would have prevented weeks of downtime.
Final thought
Small businesses don’t need endless paperwork to be secure.
Start with these three simple policies — access, devices, backups — and you already cover the basics that stop the most common attacks.
From there, you can grow step by step.
Because security isn’t about size — it’s about habits.
