
Around 10 years ago, no one really knew what remote work was, but now it has become a thing. Due to certain global events, most companies have adopted remote work, or at least a hybrid model, conciliating on-site and off-site tasks. This means more data is hosted and transmitted online, which has been like a new gold rush for hackers.
Interpol has reported a significant increase in cybercrime during this period, and it hasn’t slowed down a bit. In 2020, between January and April, it detected (meaning there are probably more) 48,000 malicious URLs, almost a million spam messages, and other threats. Remote workers are particularly easy targets due to the extensive time they spend online. So, it’s mandatory to implement safety measures to avoid breaches that can cost a lot of money.
The Rise of Remote Work and Its Security Implications
Remote work is now widespread. Some workers are now fully remote, while others have hybrid schedules. It presents many advantages for both the employee and the company. Employees get more freedom with a schedule suiting their needs and can work more comfortably. Companies get more productive and happy employees and can cut infrastructure costs, so it’s a win-win.
However, working remotely also means confidential data gets handled outside of the company’s secured infrastructure. This creates new issues to solve, safety-wise. The company can try to protect data by providing private servers and work-ready hardware. Still, the employee must also follow some security rules to avoid compromising data.
Regardless of the type of work that’s accomplished remotely, it implies connecting to the internet and various websites. Every website or app can collect information about the user. Hackers can then sell this info to other companies, which can be a huge security issue for professionals. In this instance, it becomes essential to remove personal info from Google by resorting to a specialized company.
Securing Home Networks and Wi-Fi Connections
Whether one works from home 100% of the time or simply for peace of mind, it’s essential to have a secure home network. Routers can expose every device connected to them if they’re compromised. It’s especially true for Wi-Fi connections, which are less secure than wire connections. Here are a few steps everyone should take to protect their routers:
- Changing the name and credentials of the router:
To make the router less likely to be attacked, changing the login credentials given by the service provider can go a long way. The network name (SSID) should also get a change with a name that doesn’t reveal any personal information. - Choosing the right Wi-Fi password:
Like any device, the router should benefit from a strong password. A good password doesn’t use personal information like birthdates or names. An excellent one uses both uppercase and lowercase characters, special characters, and numbers and is over 15 characters long. It should never be something one can guess from other personal information about the user or their family. - Keeping router firmware up-to-date:
Like a computer, routers are regularly updated by the provider. These patches integrate new security measures and can help prevent vulnerabilities. - Using routers’ protection measures:
Routers have incredible encryption protocols that should be used, like WPA2 or WPA3. These protocols encrypt data conveyed over the network and add another protection layer. It’s also possible to activate a router’s firewall for more security. This will filter the traffic and prevent suspicious connections, like on a PC. - Using a VPN:
Most people just use VPNs to watch Netflix, but it really increases online security. Those who have to use a public Wi-Fi network should always connect to a VPN to avoid cyberattacks. These networks can disclose personal information and are particularly vulnerable.
These measures can help protect the router, but obviously, they’re not enough. Remote workers must also install protection software on their devices. Then, adopt risk-free, critical behavior to avoid unwillingly giving the wrong permissions. Which may be opening the door to a devastating cyberattack.
Implementing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and Encryption
For those still unsure of what a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is and how it can protect a user online, here’s a breakdown. A VPN is a virtual connection to a dedicated private server in a remote location.
The connection will occur between the device receiving the signal from the router and the device connecting to the internet. This means that before one opens Chrome, Firefox, or any app with a network connection, the IP address and other connection information will be encrypted, and the server’s information will be used.
It’s essential to choose a VPN software that can securely encrypt the connection without slowing down navigation. Hence, the presence of several servers per country for most services. Some VPNs will also go further and provide password encryption services, threat protection, and secure file transfers.
There are free VPN services, but it’s recommended to pay for a VPN service to get the fastest connection and the most secure experience.
Managing Remote Access and Access Controls
Remote workers will often be asked to remotely access their workstations from their home device. This feature is convenient as it doesn’t require reinstalling every app on the home device. Users access them through a portal with a secure login and can then work immediately.
However, as it can be easily guessed, such a feature can be dangerous. A hacker getting access to the login credentials can then access all the apps used by the company and all the sensitive information they contain. It can range from billing and banking information to employees’ identity.
Thus, remote access must be secured and controlled. The software portal must be encrypted and provide the latest security features. The company can provide renewed strong passwords regularly. Plus, they can be generated randomly for more security.
Moreover, it’s always a good idea to enable two-factor authentication. It’s also possible to limit users’ permissions when they login to remote access and set up a lock-out policy. A lock-out policy can include limiting or preventing access after a set number of invalid attempts. All these features can help secure company and personal data when accessing a device remotely to work.
Securing Cloud-Based Collaboration Tools
Cloud-based collaboration tools are incredibly practical in a remote environment. That’s why companies use them more and more. However, before even considering them, it’s essential to assess the risks and needs associated with their use.
A company should think about what information is hosted there and what it can avoid sharing to secure it. Once this has been established with clear rules and security tools given to the employees, it’s all about picking the cloud service that allows for the required features while protecting data.
A compromised cloud service can lead to ransomware or the data being sold to a competitor. It can even get worse, if there are banking data hosted on the cloud service. That’s why it’s essential to apply these 10 tips for secure online banking to avoid seeing precious funds vanish into thin air.
It’s also worth noting that security isn’t a one-time thing. The cloud services must be regularly tested and monitored to remain secure, especially if a new type of threat arises (which happens often).
Fostering a Culture of Cybersecurity Awareness
Even with all the tools previously mentioned, cybersecurity can never be accomplished without awareness. Remote workers must adopt reflexes and best practices that will allow security tools to function properly. This includes being aware and up-to-date with every threat online and actively avoiding leaning into said threats.
It then becomes mandatory to react when an antivirus software signals a new threat and to never ignore it. Users must avoid clicking suspicious links while browsing online or opening emails to prevent phishing.
Furthermore, learning to manage network permissions and being careful about the files downloaded are vital to avoiding malware. All these are little steps in the right direction. It contributes to a safer work environment online. Every remote worker should implement them. A secure work routine thus becomes mandatory. It ensures trust between the employee and their company.
Closing Off
Cybersecurity has become a priority in a world that increasingly depends on virtual activities. Aside from governments and administrations, remote workers and the companies that employ them have become a primary target. So, securing online activity is now paramount. It starts by regaining control of the data hosted online and only sharing what is absolutely necessary.
While working, remote employees must ensure they’re using every tool at their disposal to prevent breaches and cyberattacks. This includes securing the devices and router used to work, as well as using a VPN with advanced features.
Companies also play a part in this protection process. They provide these tools and manage features like remote access or the cloud service used to share data with employees. However, even with all these tools, no one can ever be entirely secure without a culture of cybersecurity awareness. It means ensuring that everyone learns and understands the risks they can encounter and adopts best practices to avoid the traps set by hackers.
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