More of your business is connected to the internet: Here’s why that’s a problem and what to do

It wasn’t so long ago that people were still exclusively taking cash payments, putting money into cash registers, and handing out printed receipts.

Those things obviously still exist today, but how often do you just reach for your credit card or phone instead? What about letters? Do you still receive paper bills and invoices, or does everything just get directed to your email address these days?

What we’re experiencing is a gradual and inevitable switch to internet connectivity–and it might be more problematic than you think.

As more business systems move online, companies face new challenges that affect operations, security, and customer trust. While cloud applications, connected devices, and online services make tasks faster and more efficient, they also introduce risks that are often overlooked.

With so much relying on constant internet access, businesses are vulnerable to issues like cyberattacks, data breaches, and unexpected downtime. As such, it’s crucial to understand these risks and adopt the right practices to stay secure and keep business running smoothly.

The rise of cloud applications in business

Cloud applications, tools, and platforms have become essentials for many companies. From customer relationship management (CRM) systems to inventory and scheduling tools, businesses use the cloud to store data and simplify daily tasks. These applications are usually accessed online, making it easy for employees to work from anywhere and for teams to collaborate in real-time. Because they’re so convenient, cloud applications can quickly become the backbone of a company’s operations.

But this heavy reliance on cloud services can create serious issues if things go wrong. Imagine a scenario where the main cloud platform a business depends on suddenly becomes unavailable. Whether it’s due to maintenance, an overload of users, or a cyberattack, such an event could lead to hours, or even days, of downtime. For businesses that rely on cloud services to manage their sales, inventory, or communication, this could mean lost revenue, frustrated customers, and wasted time.

Understanding the risks of downtime and service interruptions

Downtime occurs when an online service or application is temporarily unavailable. While occasional downtime may not seem like a big deal, frequent or prolonged interruptions can be costly. One common cause of downtime is Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. In a DDoS attack, hackers flood a network with traffic, overwhelming it and causing it to crash. These attacks can target any business, especially those that rely heavily on online transactions or customer interactions.

Unexpected interruptions can also happen due to technical failures within the service provider’s systems. For example, if a cloud storage provider has a technical issue, businesses that store critical files with them may lose access to these files until the issue is resolved. This can be particularly problematic for industries like healthcare or finance, where real-time access to data is mission critical. Even routine maintenance by the service provider can disrupt a company’s workflow if it isn’t planned for.

The increasing use of connected devices and IoT

Alongside cloud applications, many businesses are investing in Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These are “smart” devices that connect to the internet and allow for remote control and monitoring. From smart thermostats in office buildings to medical devices in healthcare, IoT is transforming how companies operate. This connectivity is meant to save time, increase efficiency, and offer new ways to improve customer service.

However, each device connected to the internet represents a potential point of vulnerability. If hackers gain access to a single connected device, they may be able to access the entire network. For example, if a hacker gets into a smart thermostat, they could theoretically access more sensitive parts of a business’s network. For healthcare providers, this is especially worrying, as hackers gaining control over connected medical devices could put patients’ safety at risk.

This makes device security critical, and considerations like medical device cybersecurity are now much more important than they were before. Of course, this doesn’t only affect the medical industry. There are plenty of industries that rely on devices that are connected to the internet, and each one can contain different vulnerabilities and access points that make it easy for hackers to cause havoc.

Protecting physical devices from cybersecurity threats

Businesses must also consider the physical security of their devices and how they’re connected to the internet. Medical devices, for example, have become increasingly digital, offering doctors remote access to patient data. While this is helpful, it also means that if cybersecurity isn’t strong enough, sensitive medical information or even the functioning of the device itself could be compromised by a hacker.

To keep physical devices secure, businesses should use strong, unique passwords, ensure that all software is regularly updated, and only connect devices to trusted networks. Some companies may also choose to restrict internet access on certain devices to minimize risk. For instance, a factory might have certain machines offline or on a separate network to prevent unauthorized access.

It’s also important to educate employees on cybersecurity practices. Even something simple like changing passwords every week or month can be a great way to prevent unauthorized access to your physical devices.

Tips to stay secure with connected business tools

One of the simplest ways for businesses to enhance security is by implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA). With MFA, users must verify their identity in multiple ways (e.g., password and phone verification) before gaining access to sensitive applications. This adds an extra layer of security that makes it harder for hackers to break in. Strong passwords are also crucial; passwords should be long, complex, and regularly updated.

Another best practice is to have a reliable backup system. Backing up data on a different server or hard drive helps ensure that essential files aren’t lost if the primary system is compromised or goes down. For companies using cloud-based systems, regularly backing up files on a physical hard drive is a good precaution. This allows them to access important information even during a service interruption.

Exploring alternatives to online-only solutions

For some businesses, reducing dependency on the internet may be a viable way to enhance security. Hybrid solutions, where some processes are online and others are offline, can help create a balance. For example, a business could use online storage for non-sensitive data but keep critical files on an offline server. This way, the business remains partly operational even if its internet services go down.

In industries like healthcare or finance, where sensitive information is handled, some companies may also choose to use private networks or intranets rather than relying on the public internet. By keeping these systems separate from the internet, they reduce the risk of external attacks while still providing essential services to customers and employees.

Creating an emergency plan for internet disruptions

An internet disruption plan can save businesses from scrambling during an unexpected outage. This plan should outline how the business will communicate with employees, how they’ll access essential files, and which tasks can continue during downtime. For example, if a CRM system goes offline, employees should know how to access client information from a backup or alternative source. Regularly testing this plan and updating it as the company grows ensures it will work if needed.

Businesses should also keep contact information for their service providers handy. Knowing whom to reach out to during an outage can help resolve issues more quickly. In some cases, a service provider may have backup servers or offer emergency support to minimize downtime for customers, which can be especially helpful during critical business hours. But if this isn’t available in your budget, then having a plan among your employees can help minimize issues in the future.

The future of connectivity and what businesses can expect

As technology advances, businesses will likely rely even more on connected devices, cloud services, and other internet-based tools. While these changes can make operations faster and more efficient, they’ll also introduce new cybersecurity challenges. Businesses will need to stay informed about these changes and be proactive in updating their systems and protocols. Learning about new security practices and investing in employee training on cybersecurity basics can make a big difference.

Regulations are also likely to tighten around online business practices, especially in industries like finance and healthcare. For instance, some governments may start requiring companies to adhere to specific cybersecurity standards, making it necessary for businesses to stay compliant. Those that do can not only protect their own operations but also build trust with customers who know their data is handled responsibly.

Moving forward with a connected but secure business model

With so much of modern business relying on the internet, companies must stay vigilant and proactive. This means understanding the risks of online tools and IoT devices, maintaining secure practices, and preparing for potential downtime. Adopting security measures like multi-factor authentication, data backups, and reliable communication systems helps reduce risks.

By making smart, secure choices, your business can enjoy the benefits of connectivity without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. This approach allows them to grow and adapt alongside technology, rather than becoming overwhelmed by it.