Technology is growing so fast that it is very easy for people to do their work from home. However, while working remotely, there are some drawbacks too when we consider security. In today's digital era, there are high chances that remote workers can lose their privacy and also result in a breach of company security.
Due to this, I am sharing 10 top useful cybersecurity tips for those who are working remotely.
Online Threats To Remote Workers:-
The remote workers must be aware of the following online threats :
1. Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks
There are cases where remote workers use unsecured public Wi-Fi networks which are the main spots for attackers to spy on internet traffic and collect sensitive information.
If you want to learn more about the risk of using unsecured Wi-Fi networks then Click here.
2. Using Personal Devices and Networks
In some cases, remote workers also use their personal devices (includes computers, tablets, etc) and wi-fi networks for their work which usually does not have strong antivirus, firewall. So, there are high chances that malware enters into their devices.
3. Scams Targeting Remote Workers
Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), more and more staff are doing their work remotely. So, there will be an increase in phishing and spear-phishing campaigns targeting remote workers.
10 Top Cybersecurity Tips For Remote Workers:-
1. Use Strong Passwords
Make sure that you always use long, unique, and strong passwords for all your accounts. It is important to note that if you are using the common passwords for all of your accounts then it is not good security practice. Because if any one of your accounts is taken over by an attacker then other all of your accounts also may hack.
Ensure that your password has a minimum of 12 characters consisting of upper-case letters, lower-case letters, digits, and special characters. Always avoid using personal information while setting up a password of your account because hackers may find your personal information on any of your social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, etc. Also, make a habit of changing passwords of all your accounts regularly.
2. Set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Set up a 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) or MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) for your account that provides an additional layer of security.
3. Use a VPN
VPN (Virtual Private Network) provides privacy, anonymity, and it also encrypts your internet traffic (through tunneling). Because of this, it is very hard for ISP (Internet Service Provider), Government agencies, and hackers to intercept your internet traffic. That's why VPN is a very useful tool while working remotely.
4. Use an Antivirus Software
Make sure that you always use best and reputable antivirus software that provides the next-level of defense against any type of cyberthreats. Even if any type of cyberthreat manages to bypass the firewall then an antivirus can detect and remove it.
5. Install Updates Regularly
It is very important that you regularly update your device that patches for security flaws. You can also set updates to run automatically (If you frequently forgot to install updates).
6. Back-up Your Data Frequently
In today's digital era, you have to prepare for any type of cyberattack because online threats are increasing very rapidly. For that reason, it is necessary to do a consistent backup of all important data. Hardware backup option is out there but nowadays it's very easy and cost-effective to store your data in the cloud.
7. Secure Your Home Router
Many router manufacturers sent routers with a default password and many people don't know about this thing. So, it is necessary (mandatory) to change your router's default password. Update your firmware regularly so that security vulnerabilities get patched.
8. Check For Phishing Emails and Sites
Hackers know that most of the staff working from home during this pandemic so they tried to compromise your account through phishing and spear-phishing (targeted phishing attacks) types of attack.
Make a habit of hovering over the link before clicking upon it, checking the sender's Email Address, and searching minor mistakes in the email because it will guide you to prevent phishing attacks.
While visiting the website, make sure that the website's domain name starts with HTTPS. Don't enter your personal sensitive information if the website's domain name starts with HTTP (http://). Also, check domain name carefully and use only legitimate websites for your work.
9. Use Encrypted Communications
When you communicate any sensitive info with your workers then make sure that you use a secure communication platform that has end-to-end encryption (E2EE).
10. Lock Your Device
If you working in a public area, it is essential to keep your system lock and secure. Lock your working system using a unique and strong password.
So, These are the 10 top cybersecurity tips for staff working remotely (WFH).
If you have any other security related concern while working remotely and also want to share your views on this then please mention in the comments box and I will get back to you.
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