Enter ERP
Today’s modern ERP systems provide security that can help prevent cyberattacks. We’re referring to attacks that pose a real threat to your business, your reputation, your family and your credibility. Your company data is too vital, too necessary to be tucked away just because cyberattacks only happen to ‘other’ people. However, with careful project planning and implementation, an ERP system can help you reduce the risk of a cyberattack. Here are five ways ERP can (and just might) do it…
All in a single, integrated system
Fact: a single integrated system results in more effective, more secure data access and data management. Because modern ERP systems are an ‘umbrella’ solution filled with a myriad of once transient software – accounting, HR, CRM, operations, and others, it’s easier to manage data security and access permissions when there’s just one door. A single system also limits data access to your employees. This ensures that only authorised employees can access data or other privileged company information, greatly reducing security risks across the board.
Cloud ERP is more secure
Today, it’s hard to imagine an organisation or an entity who could develop and build a more secure environment than that of the cloud. As Gartner has repeatedly proclaimed, “Multi-tenant services are not only highly resistant to attack, but are also a more secure starting point than most traditional in-house implementations.” Security today is a comprehensive, end-to-end mindset that has to be built across every layer of the ERP environment, from the physical network interface cards to the user passwords and a result, cloud ERP is more secure.
Role-based security is key
Why trust your ERP system? Because you can. A reliable ERP system lets you limit employee access to certain jobs and tasks in accordance with their roles and responsibilities in the organisation. It’s role-based security and it blocks access to functions and modules outside the perimeter of an individual’s role or position. It’s easy to define and implement role-based security measures in an ERP system that includes securing and encrypting passwords. Your ERP system also goes that extra mile and can also manage the security of third-party vendors and suppliers.
Awesome data accuracy
Your ERP system serves your company’s security requirements a lot more than just restricting access to roles. It helps improve the consistency, security and accuracy of mission-critical data. Today’s ERP systems have highly advanced permission protocols. This is important in preventing critical data from ending up in the wrong hands, while also maintaining appropriate access so that employees can rely on the system and do their jobs.
Mobile device integration
As more employees are using mobile devices, there’s an equally growing need to protect both devices and their integration in the organisation. This is driven by the availability of mobile apps and advanced devices, both equipped to handle large amounts of data. Mobile ERP solutions enable vast amounts of data on-the-go, helping to optimise business processes, provide real-time interaction with customers and more.
Priority’s powerful mobile ERP relies on its responsive web-based UI, full support for tablets (native apps), dedicated apps for Mobile Sales Force, Mobile Field Service, Proof of Delivery and its mobile application tools to help prevent cyberattacks. That said, mobile device integration is probably the most important way that ERP can boost your company’s security and that’s because mobile ERP solutions:
– Help safeguard data by implementing remote functionalities, such as device lockdown or blocking suspicious apps
– Help secure remote access – private, encrypted connections between mobile devices and corporate network to ward off hackers and attacks
– Give your IT teams full control over the system and encryption process through a separate app-based workspace containing all the saved corporate data
– Protect data leakage, preventing deliberate or unintentional exchange of data from a mobile device, where untrusted data can be viewed but not opened or saved
– Best practices are best.
Cyberattacks are a threat to all businesses, no matter their size, scope or location. Increased data security, such as password protection, encrypted files and firewalls are just some of the ways to combat these attacks.
A robust ERP system has all the makings of a cyber-super hero, but in order to reap its benefits, implement these ERP security best practices:
– Be relentless with user/admin permissions
– Make sure your firewall is just that – on fire!
– Everyone’s got external storage; rigorously check before employees freely upload anything to your network
– Build and maintain a password change/control program for all employees
– Curb the use of social networks in the workplace (if you can)
– Customer/partner portals invite swarms of unwanted guests; monitor and control both (and often)
Good luck!
