Remote work is a powerful tool for collaboration, innovation, and getting things done. But, as more companies use remote teams to scale their businesses and outsource their work, a new concern comes with going mobile: cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity is an essential consideration for everyone with an electronic device and a wireless connection, but it’s especially crucial if you’re working remotely. When you let your protection down for even a moment, it can lead to serious consequences.
If you don’t have cyber-security measures in place, your work devices could become the entry point of a malicious attack that ends up costing your employer thousands or even millions of dollars. Use the most up-to-date security technologies from security service Corpus Christi to ensure that a hacker has never targeted your business.
Reasons to know why cybersecurity is essential for remote work
Unsecured Wi-Fi networks
Cybercriminals know that when employees go to coffee shops, hotels, or other public places to work remotely, they’re an easy target. Once you’ve logged into a free Wi-Fi network, they can easily intercept your information.
If you regularly connect to unsecured networks like this one, it makes you an easy target for cybercriminals who may be trying to steal your personal information.
VPNs provide the security and privacy needed to stay safe when using public Wi-Fi networks. They encrypt all your traffic, so hackers can’t access your private information.
Poor password protection
Like public Wi-Fi connections, social media accounts are also easy targets for cybercriminals. They can take over your accounts and lock you out or simply use them to spread malware. But, don’t worry; you can recover your business from malware attacks with a few precautions.
If you’re using the same password on your work devices as you are on social media accounts, it makes it easy for cybercriminals to get access to everything you have online. So make sure every account has a unique password that’s different from any others.
Just like this one, common passwords are easy for hackers to guess. However, when you use unique passwords for each of your accounts, it makes it harder for cybercriminals to access what’s most important to you.
Keeping your work & personal devices the same
There is a broad chance you will be using the same device to get work done while you’re on the go. This means that it’s essential to keep your personal apps and files separate from work ones in case you drop them or leave it behind somewhere.
No matter how cautious you are, there are always chances that your mobile device will get lost or stolen when you’re working remotely. If so, cybercriminals can gain access to everything on it.
You must add a password or fingerprint lock to your device so nobody else can access it without your permission. When you have work and personal data separated, you can easily wipe out your personal information if needed.
No standardization of software & apps
Every business has various software, apps, and tools that employees use to finish their work. When remote teams use computers, devices, or networks that aren’t managed, the lack of standardization increases the risk of cyberattacks.
Having all your employees on a managed network with standardized software and apps makes it easier to protect your work from cyber threats. You can also have a central team that’s able to respond to any issues that come up quickly.
Many companies fail to standardize their software and end up wasting time when employees get locked out of networks. You should search for a managed IT service provider to prevent this.
Too much collaboration
When employees are working in an open office with shared computers, it makes it difficult to avoid accidental data breaches. For example, employees may be printing documents when another person walks by and takes a copy, opening files they don’t need access to; Or even writing down passwords on sticky notes.
This becomes more of an issue when your team works remotely and without direct supervision. If you’re someone who likes to keep a low profile, this could pose a problem for your company’s security.
As much as we like all-day collaboration, it can create serious security risks if employees start sharing data with the wrong people. It may not be easy to track what everyone is doing when your team isn’t in the same building, but there are still ways to secure your data.
Wrap up
One of the biggest challenges for remote teams is ensuring their security. If you’re not careful, you risk having confidential information stolen or malware introduced into your network, which could cost you thousands of dollars in damages. Use the security service from Corpus Christi and remember these tips to stay safe while working remotely.
Layer One Networks 