Protect your company information
If you lose important company information — for example through a data breach or malicious software — it can have serious consequences for you and your business. By working systematically to identify risks, train staff, and secure your systems, you can protect your company’s information far more effectively.
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Work systematically with security
To protect your business and its information, it is important to work in a systematic and risk‑based way with information and cyber security. A systematic approach includes, for example, thinking through and documenting the following:
- What risks might your business be exposed to?
- What consequences could arise if those risks materialise?
- What security measures can you introduce to minimise the risks?
Systematic cyber security guidance at mcf.se (in Swedish)
Checklists: Protect your business from cybercrime at mcf.se (in Swedish)
Advice and support regarding IT security incidents at cert.se (in Swedish)
Protect the company's information
A good foundation is to keep your roles as a business owner and a private individual separate — for example, by using one computer for your business and another for personal matters. You also need to be aware of which information you must have access to for your business to function, and what problems may arise if someone unauthorised gains access to that information or if the information is incorrect.
The Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency provides further information that can help you improve the protection of your business information.
Tips – protect your information
- Back up your company’s information frequently and regularly. Keep the backup disconnected from your computer and the internet. Test it regularly to ensure everything works as it should.
- Keep computers, mobile phones and Wi‑Fi routers up to date by enabling automatic updates. This ensures you receive the latest fixes that help protect your information.
- Use a reliable antivirus programme and run a scan if you become suspicious.
- Only purchase IT equipment from suppliers you trust.
Review permissions and logins — not everyone needs access to everything. - Use strong, unique passwords and enable screen locks on computers and mobile phones. Use two‑factor authentication wherever possible.
- Remove apps and accounts that are no longer in use.
- Train your employees in safe online behaviour.
- Avoid public networks such as those in cafés or hotels. Instead, share your mobile connection or connect via a VPN solution.
- Use e‑services when dealing with public authorities and other businesses — it is simpler and more secure than handling paper documents.
- Use a digital mailbox to receive official correspondence electronically.
Passwords
Passwords are your keys online — they are how you identify yourself on different websites. Protecting your passwords is essential to prevent unauthorised individuals from gaining access to your company information and user accounts. Strong passwords and smart habits will take you a long way.
Tips for creating strong passwords:
- The longer the password, the more secure it is — 14 characters is recommended.
- Use numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and special characters.
- Avoid words that can be linked to you personally, as well as common words such as “summer”, “password”, or “qwerty”.
- Strong passwords are especially important for your most critical services.
Film: Strong password
Check Whether Your Password Has Been Leaked
With this tool, you can find out whether your passwords or other details have been involved in data breaches. You do not reveal your passwords — you simply search using your email address. You will also receive advice on what to do if your information has ended up in the wrong hands.
Check whether your password has been leaked at the Swedish Internet Foundation (in Swedish)
Malware and Data Breaches
By recognising some of the most common methods attackers use to deceive you, you reduce the risk of falling victim to malware and data breaches. Here, we describe ransomware (malicious software) and phishing (data breaches), and provide tips on what to do if you are affected
Influence from Foreign Powers
Foreign powers and other actors use disinformation, deception and propaganda to influence our behaviour and decision‑making. Resisting influence campaigns and disinformation is an important part of a company’s preparedness. By strengthening source criticism, risk management, and trustworthy relationships with your customers and partners, you can reduce vulnerabilities and reinforce your company’s psychological defence.