How secure is your data? It may not be as safe as you think. In an age where cyber threats, ransomware, and data breaches have become everyday risks, even small businesses are prime targets. Knowing how to secure your data is no longer a technical detail—it’s a critical business priority. A single security lapse can expose sensitive client records, interrupt operations, and damage your company’s reputation beyond repair. Data protection isn’t just an IT issue; it’s a leadership responsibility that demands proactive planning, constant monitoring, and company-wide awareness.
Jeff Ward, managing partner with the accounting firm Stone Carlie, appeared on TNtv to discuss this very challenge. He emphasized that business owners must think about their data as another key asset—just like cash, accounts receivable, and fixed assets. The question of how to secure your data should be approached with the same discipline and strategy used to protect financial resources or physical property.
The Five Components of Data Security to Secure Your Data
Jeff Ward explained that there are five components of data security every business must understand: policies, procedures, hardware, software, and most importantly, people. Together, these elements form the foundation of a strong cybersecurity program capable of protecting critical business information from both internal and external threats.
Ward noted that the “people” component is often the weakest link in the entire process. Regardless of how much money a company invests in firewalls, encryption, or antivirus software, it only takes one careless click or overlooked procedure for a breach to occur. “The human element is the most important,” Ward emphasized, urging business owners to ensure that security awareness training is a consistent part of their company culture.
He also warned against complacency—a common problem for organizations that assume small or mid-sized businesses aren’t targets for cyberattacks. In reality, smaller companies are now some of the most frequent victims of ransomware and data theft. Limited budgets often lead business leaders to focus only on technical tools while neglecting ongoing training and policy updates.
Ward stressed that every organization needs an IT professional who stays current on emerging vulnerabilities and evolving threats. If that level of expertise isn’t available in-house, he recommends partnering with a trusted IT consulting firm like ThrottleNet. With proactive monitoring, managed cybersecurity, and employee education, ThrottleNet helps businesses strengthen all five components of data security—eliminating weak links and building a resilient defense against modern cyber threats.
A Four step process to Help businesses create a solid data security program
One is to perform a risk assessment and see where they are vulnerable. Two is to document all policies and procedures so everyone is on the same page. The third piece is security awareness training and so employees know how to act and react in certain situations. Finally he urges business owners, even those comfortable with their security plan, to have their systems tested. This includes undergoing a penetration test, a vulnerability assessment, and preparations for a social engineering attack.
In the final analysis, Ward said, “the proof is in the pudding”. When it comes to data security you are either ready and prepared, or you’re not.
In the final analysis, Ward said, “the proof is in the pudding. When it comes to data security, you are either ready and prepared, or you’re not.”
Preparation is the key to long-term resilience. Understanding how to secure your data means going beyond technology—it requires a culture of awareness, accountability, and proactive defense. Every employee, vendor, and system plays a role in protecting sensitive information. Partnering with a trusted expert like ThrottleNet ensures that your business has the right mix of policies, cybersecurity tools, and ongoing training to stay ahead of modern threats. When you know how to secure your data, you’re not just protecting information—you’re protecting your business reputation, your customers’ trust, and your ability to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
For additional information visit https://www.stonecarlie.com
Watch the full episode of TNTv below!
