Love, Business, and Palm Oil: How Nene Protects Her Small Business Online

In a quiet corner of Kofi’s village, the scent of freshly brewed palm oil filled the air. Nene, Kofi’s wise grand-aunt, had been running her palm oil business for decades. Her customers loved the rich, golden oil she produced, and her business was booming. But with the rise of online transactions and digital marketing, Nene found herself venturing into unfamiliar territory.

One evening, as Kofi stopped by to help with her latest batch, he noticed a worried look on Nene’s face.

“Nene, you seem troubled,” Kofi said gently, sitting next to her. “What’s on your mind?”

Nene wiped her hands on her apron and sighed. “Ah, my dear. This internet business is a tricky thing. People say I must protect my palm oil business from these ‘cyber’ thieves, but I don’t know where to start.”

Kofi smiled reassuringly. “Nene, it’s just like protecting your oil from getting spoiled. You just need the right steps. Let’s make sure your business is as safe as it is successful.”

Practical Cybersecurity Tips from Kofi and Nene for Small Businesses:

1. Secure Your Online Accounts with Strong Passwords
   Nene had recently set up online orders for her palm oil, and Kofi explained how important it was to use a strong password. “Nene, think of your password like the key to your storage room,” Kofi said. “Make it hard to guess—long, with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. You wouldn’t want just anyone to walk into your shop.”
2. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
   “Just like you lock the door and then bolt it shut at night, Nene, you can use two-factor authentication for extra security,” Kofi said. “Even if someone tries to steal your password, 2FA adds another layer of protection by sending a code to your phone.”
3. Teach Your Employees About Phishing
   “Sometimes, these cybercriminals send fake emails to trick you into sharing personal details,” Kofi explained. Nene’s eyes widened. “You mean like a fraudster at the market trying to give you fake money?”

“Exactly,” Kofi nodded. “Always be suspicious of emails asking for sensitive information, and don’t click on unknown links.”

4. Backup Your Business Data
   Nene kept all her financial records in a ledger, but Kofi suggested moving it online and regularly backing up the data. “Just like how you store extra oil in case of a bad harvest, Nene, you should back up your business data. If your computer crashes or you’re attacked by malware, you’ll still have all your records safe and sound.”
5. Install Antivirus Software and Firewalls
   Kofi compared antivirus software to the mesh that covers Nene’s palm oil barrels, keeping insects out. “Firewalls and antivirus software keep your computer safe from harmful threats. It’s like putting a net over your shop to keep out thieves.”
6. Get an SSL Certificate for Your Website
   With Nene now accepting orders online, Kofi explained the importance of having an SSL certificate for her website. “When customers see the little padlock next to your website’s address, they’ll know it’s safe to place orders. It’s like a promise that their details are protected.”
7. Monitor Access to Sensitive Information
   “Only you or someone you trust should have access to important details, Nene,” Kofi said. “Just like how you don’t let anyone handle your money unless you trust them, limit who can access your business accounts and information.”
8. Create a Cybersecurity Plan for Your Employees
   Finally, Kofi suggested Nene write down her new cybersecurity practices for her employees. “It’s like the recipes you give your workers,” Kofi said. “If everyone follows the same steps, your business will stay safe.”

Nene’s Business, Her Legacy, Protected

With her new cybersecurity plan in place, Nene felt more confident about taking her palm oil business online. She smiled at Kofi as she stirred the pot, the rich aroma of palm oil filling the room.

“My dear Kofi, thank you. You’ve helped me protect not just my business, but the legacy I hope to leave for you and your cousins.”

Kofi nodded proudly. “Nene, your business deserves the best protection. Just like we protect our family, we must also protect what we’ve worked hard to build.”

Ready to Protect Your Own Business and Legacy?

In Encrypted Heart, characters like Kofi and Aduni navigate the challenges of love, trust, and cybersecurity. Just like Nene protects her palm oil business, you can protect your own brand with the right tools and guidance.

Grab your copy of Encrypted Heart now on Selar here.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect what matters—take action today and secure your business!