Remote workers rely on their own devices and internet connection 24/7 while they are working. Most companies suddenly shifted to this kind of set up. So, they did not have the time and resources to provide company owned computers and laptops. By the looks of it, nothing that important is at stake. Since employees know the ins and outs of their personal gadgets, safety is not an issue. But, this is not the case. Remote work poses a huge threat to the cybersecurity of personal and company information.
When employees are working in their respective offices they have access to preventive security measures. The company’s IT department install and constantly monitor this. Although data and files are not hundred percent secured, it can still combat cyberattacks and data breaches. However, more cybersecurity risks are prone to occur when connections and devices are not monitored professionally. This puts the internal database of your company at risk of being hacked and stolen. Here are some tips that you can follow to avoid such mishaps from happening.
Install An Antivirus Software
Antivirus software is a data security utility that guards your computer system from any incoming threats and malware that will attempt to enter your network. This may seem like a basic step that everyone will do. However, most just take this for granted. Leaving your computer without any sort of protection is like handing out all files to hackers for free. Without an antivirus software, any infectious programs will have an easy access to your personal information. These may include bank or credit card numbers, and passwords. Also, because of this, all your documents and files might suddenly disappear and gets deleted.
To prevent such incidents from happening, it is advisable to install an antivirus software. You can specifically establish this cybersecurity measure to the device that you use the most for work. Most security software comes at a certain price. But the good thing about it is that you can have access to all benefits. However, if you are a little short on budget, you can just install the free version that they offer. Although the software will only have limited power to protect your device, it is better than having none at all.
Separate Work and Personal Devices
Having two or more devices with a specific purpose is easier said than done. Since not everyone have the resources to own a separate computer, laptop, and phone, remote workers tend to just do everything on one gadget. While it doesn’t seem necessary to have multiple devices, separating your work and personal activities actually matters.
Using a single phone or computer alone means that you need to install various applications, and open different documents and websites. Doing so makes your device at greater jeopardy of inviting unwanted virus and hackers. Moreover, when things go south, both your company and personal information will be compromised.
Secure Your Connections
Public Wi-Fi seems like a good deal if you want to avoid paying for your own internet connection. Some remote workers find it easier and more reliable to stay at a coffee shop or cafe, order a drink, and start working. However, connecting your device to this network may do less good to you and your company database in the long run.
Without any firewall between you and other devices connecting to the public Wi-Fi, cybercriminals can just easily get inside your computer and use all kinds of information they can find. In addition, hackers can also plant a malware directly to your device once you allow file sharing across networks. Some are even smart enough to place the malware right on the connection point. So, whenever you open your Wi-Fi, a pop-up link or message will appear asking you to update a certain app or software. But, this is actually a trap that will make you install the malware.
To avoid such incidents, you can connect to your personal hotspot instead. Since you are not directly positioning your device to the Wi-Fi network, you will less likely to be spotted by individuals who are connected to the same public Wi-Fi. Another strategy that you can do is by installing your device with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This online service works by hiding your IP address and encrypts your traffic. So, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) cannot see you. Although hackers can still try to get in to your device, the data is strongly encrypted that it will take time for them to break down.
Enable Two – Factor Authentication
A two – factor authentication is a method wherein a person can only enter to a website or application after successfully putting in two pieces of validation. This cybersecurity measure is commonly applied in any application that asks for your information such as social media accounts, and online banking. However, more and more companies who have remote workers are also doing this to level up their security measures.
This method works by protecting your company system from any form of cybersecurity breach. Even if the hacker somehow finds out your password, they still cannot login because of the second piece of validation that is being asked. Usually the authentication generator will send a one-time pin, security key, or ask for your fingerprint to successfully enter.
Create Strong Passwords
We cannot deny how important a well-made password is. Passwords are the first set of protection that you place between you and any uninvited guest attempting to enter. Most people use their names, birthdays, favorite colors, and other information about themselves that can be remembered easily. However, doing so also means that you are making it so easy for your device to get hacked.
Whenever you create a password for your accounts (personal or company), always use a variety of characters. Switch from capital to small letters, numbers, and punctuation marks. Also, as much as possible, avoid coming up with passwords that are directly related to you and can easily be guessed such as your name and birthday. Remember, when your password is more complicated, it will less likely to be hacked. Moreover, do not use a singular password for all your applications. Even if one of your accounts were hacked, the rest will still be protected since you didn’t use the same password.
Another thing to consider is constantly changing the password of your internet connection. Even if it is just you and your family who have access to it, it is better to have the router username and password revised once in a while for preventive measures. So, any person lurking around your Wi-Fi and trying to get into your system will find a hard time doing so.
Working remotely doesn’t sound and look so easy as what most people may have thought. Everything you do can either make or break your personal or work life. So, to avoid additional stress and problem that may be caused by cybersecurity threats, keep your devices secured by following these tips.