Hackers have started targeting small businesses at an increasing rate, making it more important than ever that you safeguard all of your data online.

There are four steps that every online business should take to ensure that your website and all other confidential data is secure:

1) After you open a new account online or install a new software, change your account names and passwords; don’t continue using the default password

2) Update your computer operating systems to make sure you have the latest safeguards

3) Use encryption software to protect your business’ and your customers’ financial data. If you accept credit card payments, this is already required

4) Limit access to sensitive information only to those people who need to see it

Get more advice on safeguarding your business from the Wall Street Journal.