In the early days of the internet, companies assumed anyone inside the network was trustworthy. With today’s AI-led cyberattacks and skilled hackers getting into servers via the backend, it’s crucial to trust no one. Such entities should implement a zero-trust policy that forces everyone to prove they are who they say. Owners understand the importance of cybersecurity but may feel uncertain about how to fit protections into the budget.
Zero trust is crucial for businesses to protect sensitive customer data, avoid ransomware attacks, and meet regulatory requirements for data privacy and security. Implementing it shows who enters databases, limits access to only what the person requires, and utilizes technology to monitor patterns 24/7 and spot anomalies. Here are the actions corporate leaders can take to get started on zero trust without spending a small fortune.
1. Start With Policy
Brands in the United States will experience $639 billion in monetary damages due to cyberattacks in 2025. However, the consequences may reach further, damaging corporate reputations and impacting customers’ finances. Creating a zero-trust policy is the first step to securing unprotected data.
Start with a free word processing software and create a report with categories of who needs access to which files. Make a list of workers whose privileges should be scaled down or revoked. Set rules for what happens to a user’s role when they leave the workplace or change positions within the same organization.
Writing out rules keeps everyone on the same page and provides a basis for damage control should a breach occur. Utilizing a digital document allows any stakeholder to access the policies and ensure they abide by the rules.
2. Segment User Databases
Once armed with a list of user roles, separate them into microsegments. The person entering data from sales only needs editing privileges for specific folders. When enterprises microsegment users, they protect other machines in the network. Even if a hacker gains entry to one device, lateral movement to another becomes more difficult.
Separate users by using a router’s built-in virtual LAN functions. Give each piece of technology its own user account, such as each staff member’s device, printers, and POS systems. Businesses with an IT professional on staff can set up firewall rules that prevent accounts from communicating. Assigning roles and permissions is a first step in shoring up security.
3. Train Employees
In the past five years, cyberattacks have increased significantly across industries. Employees working remotely open workplaces to higher risks, and advances in artificial intelligence (AI) give hackers more tools than before. Fortunately, there are some zero-cost actions leaders can take to train workers.
Allotting some additional time to educate them about the risks of phishing and the importance of securing passwords can reduce incidents. Use free awareness training tools like CISA’s Cyber Essentials, Cyber Aware, and KnowBe4.
4. Use Open Source Security Tools
Free security tools offer some protection against hackers. By combining open-source tools with a zero-trust policy, companies can avoid more cyberhacking incidents. Turn to free endpoint protection like Microsoft Defender and WordFence for WordPress to stop simple hacking attempts. If the organization needs cloud security monitoring, AWS and Google Cloud send alerts at no charge.
Research tools that offer alerts for unusual behavior and patterns. Most offer something at the free tier, with more robust features for paid subscriptions. Those on a zero-dollar budget should implement what they can for free and add additional features as profits increase. Some protection is better than no protection.
5. Enable Multifactor Authentication
Microsoft reports that 99.9% of compromised accounts are missing multifactor authentication (MFA). Not implementing it opens these accounts to phishing, breaches, and mass insertions meant to guess the user’s password. Requiring all employees to set up MFA defends against most cyberattacks launched from an account level.
Businesses on a tight budget can utilize free apps like Duo Free and Microsoft Authenticator to set up accounts for a small number of users. Google Workspace may also offer some MFA options.
6. Think Like a Hacker
A company could pay a white hat expert in cybersecurity to test the systems, but when it is tight on funds, every penny counts. Instead of investing in an expensive test, consider the ways a hacker might try to gain access to the network.
Try common actions, such as phishing for passwords. Keep in mind what zero-trust policies should be implemented to avoid breaches through internal communications, too. Videos on YouTube can clue leadership in on new hacking methods, too. Perhaps team members could perform some ethical hacking of their own to test the security on a budget.
Is Zero Trust on Zero Budget Possible?
Business owners can protect their digital assets and customer data without spending a dime. Getting to a zero-trust place without surplus funds requires perseverance and creative solutions. They should focus on the freebies they can use for access and education.
Small businesses should start with the policy of trusting no one and verifying everyone to avoid falling victim to cyberattacks. Setting up solid policies now protects assets as the brand grows.
Zac Amos is the features editor at ReHack Magazine, where he covers HR tech, business, and cybersecurity. He has been featured on AllBusiness, TalentCulture, and VentureBeat. Check out his portfolio to see more of his work.
Photo courtesy Allison Saeng for Unsplash+
