Five rules to protect Shopify store from data loss
Marina S
August 10, 2023 • 7 min read
Shopify is a convenient and secure platform for small and medium-sized businesses. One of its advantages is its level of data protection from breaches and loss, which is crucial for small companies without security departments. However, there are still numerous threats that Shopify cannot protect against that could result in the loss of store data, such as account details, customer information, in-store products, images, personal data, and more. It is up to you to ensure the safety and security of this information. To do so, there are some key steps you can take.
Strong and relible password protects Shopify store
Setting a strong password is a basic security measure. It should be at least 8 characters long and include letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, as it makes them vulnerable to brute-force attacks. Use unique and strong passwords for each online account, and enable Two-Factor Authentication when available. Shopify offers this option for added security.
Set restricted access rights in the Shopify admin
Data loss often results from human error or malicious intent, both from employees and outside sources. To prevent this, carefully manage access permissions and limit access to confidential information to only necessary parties. If hiring a third-party developer for Shopify theme customization, ensure the code does not reveal API keys and never share them. After the work is done, change the provided credentials.
Protect your Shopify data against phishing
Cyber fraud is a prevalent concern. Exercise caution when receiving emails, especially from unknown sources. Use secure email services with phishing and malicious attachment filters. Don’t click on links directly from the email; instead, copy and paste them into your browser. Be mindful of the information being requested, as social engineering can be deceptive.
Be aware of third-party apps
Although Shopify screens all apps in the Shopify app store, compatibility issues can still pose a risk. Run a back up before integrating with third-party apps into your Shopify store to prevent data corruption. Poorly written code can create vulnerabilities, making it easier for hackers to access your account. Regularly updating apps as soon as new patches are released is essential to maintain security.
Back up your store and follow the 3-2-1 Rule
Regular backups are crucial for your store. Daily cloud backups provide quick data recovery in case of unintended deletion or hacker attacks. But there is a little trick that the golden rule of backups teaches us: there must be at least three copies. Consider downloading one regularly to your hard drive or Google Drive as a backup in case Shopify unexpectedly closes your account.
Conclusion
Your account faces both external and internal security threats. Protect your data by following security guidelines, educating employees about cyber risks, and regularly backing up your account information. This will allow for quick recovery in case of data loss. While Shopify provides some protection, it’s important to take personal steps to secure your account.