8 Essential Security Tips for Remote Workers

Remote work has transformed how we do business, but it’s also opened up new doors for cybercriminals. With employees scattered across different locations, safeguarding sensitive company data has become a top priority. 

We understand the challenges of keeping your remote workforce secure. Let’s face it, working from home means accessing company information from a variety of devices and networks, which can be a cyber crook’s dream come true.

30% of companies reported seeing an increase in cyberattacks as a result of remote workers. 

To help you shield your business from digital threats, we’ve put together eight essential cybersecurity tips tailored for remote workers. These practical steps will empower you to create a secure and productive remote work environment. We invite you to share them with your remote and hybrid work teams.

1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

• Secure Your Connection: A VPN creates a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the company’s network. This encryption ensures that data transmitted between your device and the network remains confidential and protected from interception by cyber criminals.
• Choose a Reliable VPN Provider: Ensure you use a reputable VPN provider recommended by your organization. Free VPN services may not offer the same level of security and could potentially compromise your data.

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• Add an Extra Layer of Security: Multi-factor authentication requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to an account. This could include something you know (password), something you have (smartphone), or something you are (fingerprint).
• Implement MFA Across All Accounts: Enable MFA on all work-related accounts, including email, cloud services, and VPNs. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised.

3. Keep Software and Systems Updated

• Regular Updates and Patches: Ensure your operating system, applications, and security software are always up to date. Regular updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit.
• Automate Updates: Where possible, enable automatic updates to ensure that you receive the latest security patches without delay. This minimizes the risk of vulnerabilities being exploited in outdated software.

4. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

• Avoid Common Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Avoid common passwords and ensure your passwords are a combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Use a Password Manager: Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. This tool can securely store your passwords, making it easier to manage multiple accounts without compromising security.

5. Be Wary of Phishing Scams

• Recognize Phishing Attempts: Phishing scams often come in the form of emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate sources, aiming to steal sensitive information. Be cautious of unexpected emails or messages requesting personal or financial information.
• Verify Before You Click: Always verify the sender’s information before clicking on any links or downloading attachments. If in doubt, contact the sender directly using a known, trusted communication method.

6. Secure Your Home Network

• Change Default Router Settings: Change the default username and password on your home router to something more secure. Default settings are often well-known and can be easily exploited by attackers.
• Enable Network Encryption: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is encrypted using WPA3 or WPA2. Encryption protects the data transmitted over your network, making it difficult for attackers to intercept. (Look for “Wi-Fi 6” when buying a router.)
• Segment Your Network: Consider creating a separate network for work devices and personal devices. This segmentation limits the spread of malware if one network segment is compromised. It’s easily done using the guest network feature.

7. Use Endpoint Security Solutions

• Install Antivirus Software: Ensure you have reputable antivirus software installed on your devices. Regularly update your antivirus software to protect against the latest threats.
• Enable Firewall Protection: Firewalls help monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Ensure your device’s firewall is enabled and properly configured.

8. Practice Safe Data Handling

• Encrypt Sensitive Data: Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest. Encryption ensures that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be read without the decryption key.
• Regularly Backup Data: Regularly back up important work-related data to a secure location. This could be a cloud service or an external hard drive. In case of a ransomware attack or data loss, backups ensure you can quickly restore your data.
• Secure Physical Devices: Ensure your physical devices are secure. Use strong passwords, enable device encryption, and lock your screen when not in use. Avoid leaving your devices unattended in public places.

Need Help Securing a Remote Work Environment?

The shift to remote work brings both opportunities and challenges. While it offers flexibility and convenience, it also introduces new security risks. 

As a trusted Tri-Cities managed IT service provider, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the complexities of remote work security. If you have any questions or need assistance with implementing these security measures, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Call 423-467-7777 or reach us online.