How Businesses Can Improve Cybersecurity and Access Control

5 March 2025

How Businesses Can Improve Cybersecurity and Access Control

Cyber threats are no longer just a concern for large corporations. Small businesses, startups, and even individual users are now prime targets for hackers looking to steal sensitive data.

In fact, 60% of small companies go out of business within six months of a cyber attack or data breach. This is because hackers are getting smarter now, and traditional security measures are no longer enough. A single weak password, an unsecured device, or a minor system vulnerability can open the door to a serious data breach. Businesses need some practical solutions to protect their data.

So, how can companies strengthen their defenses? Let’s break down the best ways to improve cybersecurity and keep unauthorized users out of critical business systems. 

Strengthen Authentication Methods

Cyber threats are evolving, and businesses must stay ahead. Weak passwords are one of the main reasons for security breaches. Employees often reuse passwords or choose simple ones, making it easy for attackers to gain access.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Adds Extra Security

Passwords alone are not enough to protect sensitive data. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds another layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity in multiple ways, such as one-time passwords (OTP), fingerprint scans, or security keys. According to Microsoft, MFA blocks 99% of automated attacks.

Hackers often rely on stolen credentials to access accounts, but MFA makes it significantly harder for them to succeed. Many businesses now consider MFA a standard security measure rather than an optional feature.

Password-less Authentication Removes the Risk of Weak Passwords

Many businesses are shifting to password-less authentication using biometrics, magic links, or hardware security keys. This method eliminates password-related risks and strengthens overall security.

Okta is a widely used identity management tool that helps organizations secure access to their systems. However, businesses looking for more flexibility, open-source options, or cost-effective solutions can explore Okta alternatives like SuperTokens. These alternatives offer customizable authentication features to meet different security needs. To find the best solution, businesses can refer to online guides that compare different tools and help them choose the right authentication tool for their requirements. 

Use Role-Based and Zero Trust Access Control

Not all employees need access to every system. Limiting access based on job roles is a smart way to
prevent security risks. 

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) Keeps Data Secure

RBAC ensures that employees can only access the data they need for their jobs. This helps in:

Reducing security risks – Fewer people have access to sensitive data.

Preventing mistakes – Employees cannot edit or delete data they shouldn’t touch.

Simplified user management – Permissions are assigned based on roles, making it easier for IT teams.

Zero Trust: A “Never Trust, Always Verify” Approach

Zero Trust means nobody is automatically trusted—not even internal users. Every login attempt, device,
and access request must be verified before permission is granted. Companies using Zero Trust experience fewer breaches and stronger security, as access is continuously monitored.

Combining RBAC and Zero Trust helps businesses minimize security risks and protect their data.

Perform Regular Security Audits and Compliance Checks

Even the best security measures need regular updates. Cyber threats keep evolving, so businesses must continuously check and improve their security.

Why Regular Security Audits Matter:

● Identify weaknesses before hackers do.
● Ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2.
● Prevent costly data breaches by fixing security gaps early.

Companies that conduct frequent security assessments see 60% fewer breaches, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. Running quarterly security audits and testing system defenses can help prevent cyberattacks before they happen.

Train Employees on Cybersecurity Best Practices

Technology can only do so much—employees are the first line of defense against cyber threats. A single click on a phishing email or a weak password can expose an entire company to hackers. That’s why cybersecurity training isn’t optional; it’s essential. 

Make Security Awareness a Priority 

Most cyberattacks start with human error. Employees need to recognize phishing scams, suspicious links, and social engineering tricks. Regular training sessions, real-world simulations, and security reminders help them stay alert.

Limit Access and Promote Safe Data Handling

Employees should only have access to the data they need. Educating teams on safe file sharing, secure
remote work, and data encryption reduces risks. When employees understand cybersecurity risks, they actively protect company data, making the business safer from attacks.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity is an ongoing challenge, but businesses can reduce risks by implementing strong authentication, access control, and identity management solutions. Regular security audits and employee training make these efforts even more effective. The goal is to protect sensitive data, prevent
unauthorized access, and build a secure business environment. These steps can help companies avoid costly breaches and ensure long-term security.

Investing in human resources with PERFORM

The article is part of our series on How to Motivate Employees to PERFORM. Knowing how to motivate employees is one of the most important aspects of a manager’s job.

But as important is the need to manage the factors that contribute to that motivation, and to create the conditions for people to perform and realise their potential.

Our tool to help you achieve these management skills is the Apex PERFORM model. It stands for:

P – Potential
E – Expertise
R – Results
F – Focus
O – Opportunities
R – Resources
M – Motivation

>> Return to the Managing Performance Knowledge Hub