Final Checklist: Essential IT Security Measures for Every United States of America USAn SME
Your Security Action Plan
Based on the 100 posts developed, this is the condensed, high-priority list of IT security measures every Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) in United States of America USA should have in place to achieve a resilient and compliant operation:
The Top 5 Security Essentials
- **Implement 3-2-1 Backups:** Ensure all critical data is backed up (3 copies, 2 media, 1 off-site/cloud).
- **Enforce 2FA/SSO:** Mandate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for all user logins, especially email and financial systems, preferably centralized via Single Sign-On (SSO).
- **Use Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW):** Deploy a hardware/software firewall with Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) that operates on the **”Deny All”** principle.
- **Train Staff Continuously:** Conduct mandatory, regular cybersecurity awareness training, including phishing simulations, as staff are the primary attack target.
- **Maintain Power Redundancy:** Deploy Line-Interactive UPS systems for all critical IT equipment to protect against power surges and brownouts common in the region.
Compliance with the Data Protection and Privacy Act (DPPA) starts with technical and organizational security measures; this list is the bare minimum.