5 Remote Work Security Mistakes that Create Cyber Risks
Human error is high on the list of what causes a security breach.
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Human error is high on the list of what causes a security breach. Far too many employees are opening unsecure links or sending confidential information through email to someone posing as the CEO.
To steer clear of this, provide regular training for the employees about the security threats they should be aware of and how they can avoid them to keep all of their information safe. Educating employees won’t protect the entire organization from every potential security breach, but it will greatly mitigate the risk.
Many top executives don’t see the value in hiring an entire IT team right away because it doesn’t directly bring in revenue like sales does. IT professionals know what they provide to the organization and how overlooking their importance can jeopardize a company.
One of the most common challenges for IT departments in every industry is the skill gap. Security requirements are strict to make sure everything is protected, so you shouldn’t sacrifice having a talented IT department.
Make sure your IT department is completely built out with enough employees who offer all the talent your network requires. Don’t overlap talent in certain areas if it’s making you vulnerable in others.
In most circumstances, employees are assigned a work computer that should be used exclusively for work. Their personal devices should be used for personal purposes only. When you mix the two, you will likely start to have security issues.
Personal computers are not protected with the same security as work devices. So if an employee is working with confidential company information, it will usually be more vulnerable to attacks on their personal computer. On the other hand, if an employee uses their work computer for personal use, they may be visiting less secure sites that could open them up to danger. Reiterate to all employees that each device has its own uses that can’t be changed.
Security is challenging with remote workers because employees aren’t using the constantly monitored, in-office secure network. To combat this issue, use a VPN to increase your geographical reach without giving up security.
A VPN stops your ISP from tracking your browsing history, location and IP address. This means your information is protected and you won’t have to worry about cybercriminals watching your activity.
A VPN is even more important for employees using public Wi-Fi. It can stop the countless cyberattacks on public networks and it will protect the data your employees send and receive, including your company’s confidential data.
For remote employees, the paperwork they need to do their jobs is no longer in immediate reach. Some employees may visit the office every so often to get what they need to do their job, or request that someone mail it to them. Roles that depend on company and employee information, such as HR or accounting, must have access to these documents at home.
The issue that comes with this practice is employees have confidential company information loose around their house. It could easily get lost or viewed by an inappropriate party, violating compliance standards, which puts the entire organization at risk.
Businesses that invest in a remote work model need to ensure they’re fully investing in their employees’ equipment and training, Rivera said.
“While some employees are able to do their jobs from their own personal devices, companies need to take responsibility for their data by supplying employees with secured, business-only devices as well as training,” he said.
Businesses that invest in a remote work model need to ensure they’re fully investing in their employees’ equipment and training, Rivera said.