Heading out for some well-deserved time off? Don’t let your business security take a break while you do. With cyber threats on the rise, it’s critical to make a few smart moves before you leave. Here’s your essential checklist to keep your business safe and your mind at ease this summer.
1. Set Up a Smart Out-of-Office Reply
Craft an out-of-office message that keeps your plans private. Avoid sharing specific travel dates or destinations, and never include sensitive information. A vague, professional reply protects your business from would-be attackers looking for an easy target.
Why it matters:
Oversharing in auto-replies can tip off cybercriminals that key staff are away.
Pro tip:
Route urgent requests to a monitored group inbox rather than a single absent employee.
Learn more about SkyViewTek’s managed IT services for secure communications.
2. Remind Your Team to Stay Sharp Against Phishing
Before you leave, remind your team to double-check emails for phishing scams and avoid clicking on suspicious links, especially while working remotely or on mobile devices. Cybercriminals often ramp up attacks when they know staff are distracted or out of office.
Why it matters:
Phishing remains one of the most common—and effective—ways for attackers to gain access.
Pro tip:
Share a quick refresher on how to spot suspicious emails and encourage staff to report anything unusual.
Explore how SkyViewTek’s cybersecurity solutions can help protect your accounts.
3. Limit Access to Key Systems
Review who really needs access to critical systems or files during your absence. Temporarily revoke permissions for anyone who doesn’t need them, and make sure only trusted team members can make changes or view sensitive data.
Why it matters:
Fewer people with access means fewer opportunities for mistakes or breaches.
Pro tip:
Set calendar reminders to restore permissions when you return.
4. Test Your Backups
Don’t just assume your backups are working—test them. Make sure business data is safe, recent, and restorable if something goes wrong while you’re away. A solid backup plan is your best defense against ransomware and accidental data loss.
Why it matters:
If disaster strikes, a tested backup is the fastest way to recover.
Pro tip:
Schedule regular backup tests and document the process for your team.
5. Share Emergency Contacts and Reporting Steps
Before you go, make sure your team knows exactly who to contact and what to do if something feels off. Share emergency contacts and clear reporting steps for security incidents, IT issues, or anything suspicious.
Why it matters:
Quick action can prevent a small issue from becoming a big problem.
Pro tip:
Keep emergency contacts posted in a shared, easily accessible location.
Don’t Leave Security to Chance
A few quick tweaks to your habits and settings now mean you can actually relax on vacation—knowing your business is covered. For extra peace of mind, contact SkyViewTek for a free dark web scan or to review your summer security checklist before you go. Safe travels and secure business!