10 Best Practices to Strengthen Cybersecurity in a Sign Shop

Sign shops and signage manufacturers increasingly rely on digital tools to streamline production and customer interactions. These include:

• Online ordering platforms for customers to customize and purchase signage. 
• Cloud-based design software that stores valuable client projects and proprietary designs. 
• Online stores selling standardized and pre-designed signs.
• Connected digital signage solutions that use internet access to update displays remotely. 
• Programming tools and digital controllers used in automated production. 

While these advancements allow businesses to scale, they can create vulnerabilities. Any digital tool—whether used in customer service, online transactions, or production—can increase the risk of cyber threats. 

• Phishing & Social Engineering Attacks: Hackers often target small and large businesses through phishing emails pretending to be suppliers or customers. Clicking on a malicious link or providing sensitive information can compromise login credentials, financial data, or proprietary design files.
• Ransomware Attacks: Ransomware is a type of malware that locks files and demands payment for their release. If a sign shop’s order management or production software is encrypted, it can halt operations, causing costly delays.

• Data Breaches: Customer data, including payment information and order details, is a valuable target for hackers. Failing to protect this information can result in legal consequences and loss of customer trust.
• Website & E-commerce Vulnerabilities: For businesses selling signs online, securing e-commerce platforms is essential. Hackers can exploit weaknesses in outdated website software to steal payment information or inject malicious code.
• Digital Signage Security Risks: Connected signage solutions and cloud-based design platforms need robust security measures. Without protection, unauthorized access can lead to altered displays, stolen client data, or system downtime. 

Ignoring cybersecurity can have serious consequences, like 

• Operational Disruptions: A cyber attack can halt production, delaying customer orders. 
• Financial Losses: Ransomware or fraud can result in costly recovery expenses. 
• Reputation Damage: A data breach can erode customer trust and loyalty. 
• Legal & Compliance Issues: Mishandling sensitive customer data can lead to fines or lawsuits. 

“Cybersecurity is a business imperative for companies of all sizes. In today’s digital landscape, protecting sensitive information and maintaining customer trust are essential. Businesses must prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard assets, ensure compliance, and stay ahead of evolving threats. A proactive approach is the key to resilience and long-term success.” – Chase Williams, Manager, Security & Compliance at Gemini 

Even for small sign shops, taking proactive steps to strengthen cybersecurity can protect business continuity and customer relationships. 

Every signage business, no matter its size, can take steps to fortify cybersecurity. Start by assessing your current processes, identifying weak points, and implementing these best practices: 

1. Train Employees Regularly: Consider implementing routine online training for team members, tailored to their job functions. Monthly security awareness training can help employees recognize phishing attempts, suspicious links, and data protection protocols.
2. Use Strong Passwords & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Ensure all business systems, including order management and email accounts, use complex passwords. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step. 
3. Perform Regular Data Backups: Protect critical digital files—customer orders, design files, and financial records—by backing them up regularly to secure locations. Use both cloud-based storage and external hard drives for redundancy. 
4. Keep Software & Systems Updated: Ensure design software, e-commerce platforms, and connected signage systems are running the latest security patches. Outdated software often has vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. 
5. Secure Your E-commerce Platform: If you sell signs online, invest in secure hosting, SSL certificates, and fraud protection for online transactions. Partner with secure payment processors that offer advanced fraud detection. 
6. Invest in Cyber Insurance: Cyber insurance can help cover recovery costs in the event of a cyber attack, data breach, or ransomware incident. Evaluate policies that align with your business needs. 
7. Install Firewalls & Antivirus Software: Firewalls prevent unauthorized access to your systems, while antivirus software detects and removes malware before it can cause damage. 
8. Restrict Access to Sensitive Data: Only grant access to critical files and customer data to essential personnel. Consider using role-based permissions to limit unnecessary exposure. 
9. Monitor for Suspicious Activity: Use cybersecurity monitoring tools to detect and alert you to unusual activity, such as failed login attempts or unauthorized file access. 
10. Conduct Cybersecurity Audits: Assess your current cybersecurity measures and work with professionals to identify gaps. Many cybersecurity firms offer small business-friendly services to help implement security solutions without overwhelming resources. 

Cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s a critical part of running a successful signage business. By implementing these best practices, sign shops can protect their operations, secure customer data, and prevent costly disruptions.  

Are you looking for a reliable signage partner committed to innovation and security? Gemini provides trusted solutions that keep your business running smoothly. Contact us today to learn more.