BLOG
CLOSING FOR CHRISTMAS? HERE’S OUR HOLIDAY CLOSURE CHECKLIST
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! But, before we can pack our bags and empty out the office fridge, there are several things you need to do to prepare for a secure holiday closure and a smooth reopening in January. Let’s get started!
1. Turn off all equipment
This doesn’t mean sleep mode, it means computers and monitors should be shut down and switched off at the power.
2. Protect your passwords
Don’t rely on auto fill incase you get a new device. And you can’t rely on your memory either, because you have been on holidays after all! Instead, use a secure password manager such as Keeper.
3. Change your voicemail
Ensure your landline voicemail lets callers know you are out office. If you like, you can also divert calls to your mobile phone.
4. Setup your Out of Office
Let people know when you’ll be back on deck with an auto out-of-office reply. You may wish to include a phone number for people to call if their matter is urgent.
5. Update your Google Business Profile
Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) lets you update your holiday hours without changing your regular hours.
6. Disaster Recovery
If you are using Cloud to Cloud, then this one isn’t for you. But if you are using Backup Disks, make sure your full backups are taken off site and that you have contingency.
7. Physical Security
Store your computers and other devices in a locked cupboard, especially if they are in eyesight to the public. You may also want to check that your insurance is up to date,
8. Check your UPS
As we approach storm season here in Australia, you will need to ensure that you have constant access to power.
9. Run software updates
Not only will software updates strengthen your security, running them means you are less likely to have to do them on your first day back in the office.
10. Educate staff on phishing scams
Phishing and SMS scams peak over the holiday period while staff are off their A-game. Educate them and show them the common scams to watch out for.
11. Develop an Incident Response Plan
If you are the victim of a breach of a physical break in, you will want to know about it before you return from holidays.
12. Pay your invoices
If you require assistance from one of your service providers during the break, the last thing you want is to be on credit hold.
If you want further information about any of the above, please contact our team.
