Freelancers

Cybersecurity Essentials for Freelancers and Small Teams Running a freelance business or a small team means you juggle projects, invoices, and client data every day. A simple security routine helps you avoid costly mistakes and keeps client trust. These basics are easy to adopt and work anywhere. Protect your passwords and accounts Use a password manager to store unique passwords for every site. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Keep recovery codes in a safe place; avoid storing them in plain emails. Review security questions and avoid reusing answers across sites. Secure your devices Install updates for your operating system and apps. Turn on disk encryption and a firewall. Use antivirus or anti-malware, and run scans periodically. Lock your screen when you step away; use a strong, memorable password. Safe email and links Be wary of unexpected messages asking for urgent actions or money. Check the sender and hover links to preview the destination. Avoid opening attachments from unknown senders. Prefer secure, reputable email services with built-in encryption. Backups and data protection Back up important files regularly and keep at least one copy offsite or in the cloud. Test restoring a file every few months to verify the backup works. Automate backups when possible to reduce human error. Work with clients securely Use encrypted file transfers and secure client portals. Share access with the least privilege needed; revoke it when no longer required. Create a simple data-retention rule to delete old files safely. Simple routines you can adopt Do a quick weekly security check: updates, permissions, and backups. Keep a single, trusted password manager; avoid reusing passwords across services. Educate teammates or colleagues about phishing and safe online habits. Key Takeaways Protect client data with strong passwords, 2FA, and regular backups. Keep devices updated, encrypted, and free of unnecessary software. Use encrypted communication and secure file sharing to reduce risk.