Working from home has become an emerging trend and one that started even long before Covid, but since the beginning of the pandemic, the rate at which employees are working from home has significantly increased. After all, it is the safest option in preventing the spread of the virus, and statistically businesses are still operating quite successfully as employees shift to a remote style of work.
While there are many benefits associated with this new transition, working from home does present some drawbacks worth noting as well. Specifically when it comes to security measures, there are challenges and new cyber security risks that your employees may face which makes it more important than ever to consider what home office security measures you have in place, and whether they are sufficient.
How Can You Stay Safe Online?
Thankfully with the proper safety measures in place and ensuring your staff are up to date on current cyber security threats, it should be fairly easy to stay secure. You should however, notify your employees of these important cyber security tips to follow.
Refrain From Using Public Wi-Fi
While this may not be as big of a concern at the moment with many shops closed, typically you’ll see some employees who prefer to work in a cafe setting occasionally, as a change of scenery. The problem is that public Wi-Fi is often used and this can be a dangerous means of working. Hackers often target those on public Wi-Fi which leaves you susceptible if they join the same network as an employee.
Your best bet? if you have employees who will be in a public location at any point during working hours, confirm that they know to use personal hotspots or have their web connection encrypted for added security. Encrypted web connections help to protect your traffic.
Choose Strong Passwords
Opting for strong passwords is always a good idea whether working remotely or not. Should your computer or laptop get stolen or lost, hackers will have a much more difficult time getting into it.
Make sure your remote working staff are creating passwords with multi-characters and that those passwords are long. Setting up passwords to include a two-step authentication process is also worth considering for added protection. Remember to use unique passwords for different systems and logins as well.
Turn to Security Protection
If your team is working remotely on company laptops, it is imperative that up-to-date security protection is installed on each one. Furthermore, it is highly suggested that these laptops also have firewalls, antivirus, device encryption, web filtering, and any other preventative software installed too.
If your employees are using their own computers, they should also have these same security protections in place.
Consider Encrypted Emails
To prevent hackers from potentially reading your emails, consider encrypting all email communication. You can install certain applications that are specifically designed to protect your emails. You should also give your employees a heads up on what emails are suspicious and how to spot cyber threats, such as phishing emails. Any training you can provide on cyber security is beneficial for everyone.
Use Caution and Be Aware of Pop-up Windows
Tech support scammers are often targeting those working from home. Before you click a pop-up window stating that there is a security concern on your computer, execute some caution. Often these notices that state you need to upgrade your operating system are simply a means to easily hack your computer.
How Can You Keep Your Documents Secure At Home?
- Keep loose documents filed or neatly label folders accordingly to maintain organization.
- If possible, store all business files in a lockable drawer, cabinet, or other safe spot ideally under lock and key.
- Keep your desk clutter free and free from paperwork.
- Consider scanning and storing documents digitally, and keep them on a high security cloud storage or external hard drive.
- Opt for secure shredding services. Rather than shredding your documents with an office shredder, have peace of mind in knowing that many professional shredding providers offer residential services. Alternatively, collect any documents that are no longer relevant but highly confidential, and drop them off to your employer.
ATI Secure Docs protects your company’s confidential information and ensures compliance with industry and government regulations. We reduce your liability by shredding all sensitive files and documents that are no longer needed.
Working remotely has many benefits, but it’s important to prioritize online security and document security. Contact ATI to schedule residential or commercial shredding services.