Floods can wreak havoc on businesses, damaging property, disrupting operations, and creating unexpected challenges. But while most business owners focus on physical recovery—like repairing buildings and replacing equipment—there’s another critical risk to consider: cyber security. In the chaos following a natural disaster, cybercriminals often see an opportunity to exploit vulnerabilities, from compromised devices to phishing scams.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential cybersecurity steps your business should take after a flood to ensure your operations are not only restored but also protected from digital threats.
When returning to your premises after a flood, the first step is to assess physical damage. But while inspecting structural issues and equipment, don’t overlook your IT infrastructure:
Check servers, computers, and network devices for water damage. Even minor exposure can lead to hardware malfunctions or data corruption.
Avoid turning on damaged devices. Powering on compromised equipment can cause further damage or introduce vulnerabilities into your network.
Document everything. Take photos and log details of damaged IT assets for insurance claims, including any data storage devices.
Pro Tip: If your business uses Empower Managed Services, your devices will already have offsite backups in place, minimising the risk of data loss.
After a flood, your inbox will likely be flooded too—with emails from insurance companies, utility providers, and government agencies. Unfortunately, this is the perfect time for phishing scams to sneak in.
Cybercriminals often send fake emails pretending to offer disaster relief or insurance support. Here’s how to protect your business:
Empower UserSHIELD clients benefit from built-in phishing protection, helping detect and block suspicious emails before they reach your inbox.
Once power and internet services are restored, it’s tempting to jump straight back into business. But before reconnecting to your network, take these steps to avoid exposing your business to cyber threats:
If your business uses Empower DeviceSHIELD, our proactive monitoring ensures that any vulnerabilities or threats are identified and addressed immediately.
Data recovery after a flood can be tricky, especially if you rely heavily on onsite storage. Here’s how to ensure your data remains safe:
With The National PC Way, businesses benefit from automated, secure backups that ensure quick recovery, even in the aftermath of a disaster.
If a flood has disrupted your business, it’s the perfect time to review and update your disaster recovery plan. Incorporate lessons learned from the experience and ensure your plan addresses both physical recovery and cybersecurity measures:
Empower Managed Services clients benefit from tailored Technology Alignment strategies, ensuring both disaster preparedness and long-term IT resilience.
Flood recovery isn’t just about rebuilding what was lost—it’s about protecting your business from future risks, including cyber threats. By taking proactive cyber security steps alongside your physical recovery efforts, you’ll ensure your business is resilient, secure, and ready to thrive.
For more information on how The National PC Way can safeguard your business, contact National PC today. Don’t wait until after disaster strikes—ensure your business is protected from both physical and digital threats.