With the increasing reliance of computers for so many of our daily tasks, the ensured security of your digital information has become increasingly more important.

Many businesses depend on computers to withhold all of their important information, and often take for granted that their data is securely stored in their device. Unfortunately, if not protected properly, computers can be at high risk for theft or damage. It’s not enough to simply plug in a tricky password to your login screen anymore; unauthorized access to your computer’s information and software can happen in innumerable ways. In order to prevent this from happening, you need to ensure that your computer is protected by IT security.

Here’s a crash course on computer security, and why it can be critically important to your business.

What Is IT Security?

The term IT security can be a bit tricky to define because it covers so many areas of the technological world. Essentially it means the protection and maintenance of your digital equipment, information, and network services to ensure that your property stays classified and safe. This can cover areas of either your physical hardware like your smartphones and laptops, as well as your private data networks, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and operating systems. And that’s just to name a few.

Are You at Risk?

While computer security is critical in any industry that depends on technology for daily tasks, there are certainly businesses that are more vulnerable to security risks than others.

If your company uses any sort of financial systems—like a website that stores credit card numbers or bank information—your business could be a prominent hacking target. If this information is left without proper IT security measures in place, your data is at high risk for being breached and stolen, leaving your business vulnerable to losing money and the trust of your customers.

Large businesses are generally common targets for security violations as well. Many corporations run the risk of data leaks, identity theft, and data breaches if their IT security is not up to standard. This can not only cause major financial loss, but it could result in embarrassing public backlash as well, like the 2011 Sony Playstation Network hack, which left millions of people with their personal information and credit card numbers at risk of being stolen and Sony’s PR team scrambling to make amends.

While ensuring that your business’s security team is up to snuff, it’s important to keep in mind that computer hardware itself—like your tablet or laptop—can be easily at risk as well. Any consumer device can be infected with malware that either gathers your passwords and private information, or can be used as a botnet to attack other vulnerable targets.  Again, this means that ensuring that your computer is monitored by IT security can be vital for the safety and productivity of your business.

Why IT Security Hires Are Important to Your Business

Hiring an Information Technology expert can be one of the most effective things you can to do ensure that your computer systems are protected against harmful data breaches. IT professionals can apply the proper security measures to your networks to ensure that you are protected most efficiently, while employing the best software that is suited for your company’s needs. If you’re looking to hire an IT Security expert, look for recruits with certifications like CISSP, SSCP, ISSEP, ISSAP, ISSMP, CISA, CISM, CCSP, GESC, and GISO. Each of these shows that your potential new IT hire has the skills and know-how to keep your company safe and running smoothly.