Security in ‘the cloud’: How to make sure your information remains secure while using cloud-based software

Cloud computing gives you greater freedom than ever before. No longer tethered to a desk, you can manage your business, and with CheckVault your payments as well, on the go from anywhere.

So with the growth in cloud-based software services available we thought we would share with you a few tips on how to keep your information secure when using these tools for your business or at home.

• Use an internet browser with good security protection – Google Chrome is acknowledged as the most highly secure of the most popular browsers. We have optimised our site for Google Chrome to give you the best and most secure CheckVault experience.
• Check that the website is secured – Look at the top left hand side of the internet address bar. A secure site is signified with a closed/locked padlock symbol. The start of the website address will also show as https where the ‘s’ stands for ‘secure’. This means that the link between your computer and the website starting with ‘https’ is encrypted so that it can’t be seen by anyone else. It is worth noting that some devices like phones or Safari Mac don’t show the start of the address until after you have clicked on the address bar.
• Keep your password private – do not give your password to anyone. At CheckVault we will never ask for your password. Most sites will give you a quick way to reset your password if you forget it.
• Avoid password re-use – Setting the same password on all your cloud services means if someone knows your password to one service they would be able to use it on your other services too.
• Unique log on for each user – If you are part of an organisation where more than one person needs access to the account, some sites will allow you to add other members to your teams account so there is no need to share your password. With CheckVault it’s easy to set up an Organisation so you can allow different access and viewing permissions for each organisation member.
• Enable a second authorisation method – Many services offer what’s called “Two Factor Authentication (2FA)”. That means you use your logon details and another device to identify yourself, like a Mobile Phone for example. CheckVault automatically requires 2FA for approving transactions and critical account details.
• Log out when you finish a session – this is particularly important if you are using a shared computer, such as at a library or internet cafe. CheckVault will automatically log you out of your session if you have been inactive for 60 minutes just in case you forget to log out yourself.

With these simple tips in mind, you’ll be well placed to take advantage of the best cloud-based software has to offer from flexibility of work practices, to automatic updates; from streamlining processes to speed, convenience and beyond.

At CheckVault we take the security of your information seriously. If you think you have received any suspicious notifications, emails, SMSs or phone calls, contact our dedicated Support team  immediately on 1800 CVAULT (1800 28 28 58).