Zero Trust: how to apply this security principle across your business

The world of digital offers many advantages, but also brings with it many risks. If you trade online, you want your commercial data to be secure at all times. One of the best ways to tighten your online security is to apply the Zero Trust principle across your own business. But how does this work, and what can you do to integrate this principle into your day-to-day business?

What does Zero Trust mean?

Zero Trust means “trust nothing”. This means you never trust anyone automatically, regardless of whether they are part of your network or outside it. Instead of relying on traditional security methods, such as firewalls, every user, device and access attempt is monitored closely. The aim is simple: minimise the risk of unauthorised access and protect your data.

How can you apply Zero Trust across your business?

1. Tighten your authentication processes
   Make sure all users at your company use strong, unique passwords, and introduce two-factor authentication (2FA). This requires users to log in not only with a password, but also with a second confirmation, such as a code sent by text or an app. This makes it far harder for hackers to gain access.
2. Limit access to information
   Not everyone in your company needs to have access to everything. Apply the principle of least privilege: limit employee access to only what they need for their work. This prevents sensitive data being accessible to just anyone within your organisation.
3. Check and monitor access regularly
   Make sure you review access permissions regularly, for both employees and external parties. Former employees who still have access to your systems are a potential security risk. Suspicious activity can be detected by checking access regularly, or by reviewing access logs, and taking prompt action.
4. Protect your devices
   Every device that connects to your network, such as computers, tablets and phones, should be secured with up-to-date (antivirus) software and firewalls.
5. Training and awareness
   Make sure everyone in the company gets training on cybersecurity, phishing attacks and the importance of strong passwords. The more aware they are of the risks, the less likely they are to cause an accidental security breach.

By managing access carefully, authenticating users and securing your devices, you help to create a safer digital working environment both for yourself and for your commercial relationships with growers or buyers.

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