When consumers open an account, register to receive information or purchase a product from your business, they entrust their personal information to you, believing that you will take steps to protect their information. Threats to the security of information are varied - from computer hackers to disgruntled employees to simple carelessness.

Protecting your computer systems with the latest security software is only part of the process of securing your customers' and your company's data. You need to take additional steps that protect information stored in these systems from falling into the wrong hands.

The following resources provide guidance to help your business develop an overall information security plan, that not only protects your computers, but information your company collects and stores:

• FBI Services for Businesses
  The Federal Bureau of Investigation offers assistance to businesses in the areas of employee background investigation, antitrust investigation, trade secret and intellectual property protection, cyberspace patrol, economic espionage, and anti-terrorism.

• Cyber Security Guides and Tips
  The Dept. of Homeland Security provides these guides and current awareness alerts to help businesses secure their computers and networks, and to avoid malicious attacks from hackers and viruses.

• Securing Your Server: Shut the Door on Spam
  This fact sheet covers quick, easy, and no- or low-cost steps business can take to protect your computer systems from misuse.

• Security Check: Reducing Risks to your Computer Systems
  Brief fact sheet about designing secure computer systems and safeguarding against hackers.

More Information

• FTC Privacy Initiatives
  This guide explains the importance protecting and securing personal information.