As people around the world are working from home, remote cybersecurity has become an important issue. When working in the office, cybersecurity measures can be easily controlled within the confines of controlled systems. But, once employees begin accessing files from their home computers, cybersecurity measures are tougher to control. Fortunately, there are several adjustments that employees can make to secure their remote file server access from home. The following cyber security principles for working from home are recommended:
To keep all employees on the same page, businesses should create how-to documents that explain necessary cyber-security principles. Businesses should have a quick training session to explain the details.
All work devices should have full-time encryption procedures, even when the devices are at rest.
Employees should only use their work devices when doing work at home. Those devices can be secured in a way that personal devices cannot be. It might be convenient to have email on a personal device, but it is risky if those emails need to be encrypted.
Mobile devices need to have an MDM to secure devices that use a mobile operating system. This is handy for businesses that rely on mobile phones, tablets, and laptops so IT can monitor the different operating systems and apps.
When using patched VPNs, it is tough for hackers to access files and other encrypted data. Businesses with a large number of remote workers may need several VPN licenses to accommodate everyone’s needs.
Employees need to know exactly what to do if their devices are lost or stolen. They should also have procedures in place if their devices are broken because they shouldn’t take them to a local repair shop because it could give people quick access to business files.
It is vital that businesses frequently update their operating systems. These updates often include security updates that can protect their electronic assets. Employees might need to be told when and how to update their devices.
Within the walls of the business, passwords might be safe for long periods of time. But, when at home, those devices become susceptible to hackers. Therefore, it is important that remote users change their passwords regularly. Many businesses are turning to password managers to help their employees remember their frequently changing passwords.
Another way to protect data is through multi-factor authentication passwords. Passwords that require confirmations through second devices will also keep hackers from accessing data.
Businesses that want to keep their devices secure should set up remote access. This gives IT personnel access to all devices no matter where they are. This allows IT to shut down computers if employees think someone has accessed their files. It also allows IT to gain access to devices if employees decide to quit. It is not easy to set up remote access, but the effort is worth it for the protection it provides.
Together these cyber security principles for working from home can help your business processes and data be safer.
