Lower Your Farm’s Cyberattack Risks

Understand the cyber risks you face — and how to reduce your exposure

In 2020, the FBI received nearly 800,000 complaints about cybercrime — up nearly 70% from 2019. From phishing to spoofing to extortion, the attacks last year generated losses of more than $4.1 billion.   

“While we often only see large operations make the headlines after a cyberattack, it’s really important to understand that hackers will penetrate and steal from any size of business if they are able to,” says Melissa DeDonder, CPA and business technology consultant at KCoe Isom.

Cybersecurity threats can easily become scary and overwhelming, says Francis Nemia, principal with CLA. “Although there are numerous ways in which you can be attacked or exploited, there are also many ways you can help protect yourself from cyber threats.”

DeDonder and Nemia, along with the companies’ technology professionals, provide these tips for farmers.

• Use strong passwords and change them periodically. A strong computer password or phrase is perhaps the easiest way to enhance the security of your system. Set up a complex password from eight to 64 alphanumeric characters and use special characters such as “#@*&. Remember, passwords should never be written down and stored near your device. When possible, adopt a two-factor authentication strategy. Update your password periodically. 
• Keep an inventory of systems, software, data, and information. In addition to your equipment inventory, include cloud applications, mobile applications and other third parties who may have access or control of the data and information. 
• Install anti-virus software. Anti-virus software actively scans for viruses trying to invade your email, system files or operating system. Choose a quality software package, keeping in mind the reputation of the company and product, features of the software and compatibility with your computer.
• Perform daily full system scans. Viruses, spyware, and malware are continually evolving. As a result, they can sometimes evade your protection methods and infect your computer system. Implement daily scans via your anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-malware software to find, quarantine and remove any malicious agents in your network before any (or further) damage is done.
• Create a periodic system backup schedule. Many types of malicious agents can destroy the contents inside your computer. Create a periodic backup schedule to make sure your data is retrievable when something harmful happens to your computer. Consider backup options like a cloud service or a personal external hard drive. 
• Regularly update your computer system. Run regular computer system updates to repair any bugs and abnormalities within the system. Make sure you allow updates as they are released. A network firewall is an essential tool that acts as a perimeter around your computer and blocks unauthorized incoming and outgoing access. When setting up or configuring a computer, take advantage of the built-in firewall capabilities of the operating system. 
• Use email and the internet with caution. Hackers can exploit email in many ways — hiding viruses in attachments, for example. Do not open or read emails from email addresses you don’t recognize. Delete them immediately. In addition, many phony websites are camouflaged to mimic authentic websites. When entering URLs, check the name and correct spelling of the website. Avoid clicking on popups, ads, graphics and links to other websites.
• Practice ongoing, employee awareness and training for cybersecurity best practices. Make sure employees know their roles and understand how to handle and secure sensitive information.