A study from Cyber Server shows that cyber hackers attack every 39 seconds, on average, 2,244 times a day.
So, how can you protect your company from a data breach? We’ve rounded up some steps you can put in place as your employees continue to work from home!
1. Update Your Remote Work Policies
A recent report from OpenVPN shows that almost 25 percent of companies with remote work security had not updated their policies in more than a year. Your remote policies are only as powerful as they are relevant! If this sounds like your company, the time is now to update your policies.
The policy should include a list of authorized operating systems and devices and language around Wi-Fi protocols. The policy also should specify the type of antivirus and malware software and that this software be up-to-date. If employees are using their personal devices, they should segregate company data from personal data. Consider asking employees to acknowledge that they have read the policy and will comply.
2. Evaluate Your VPN
A VPN is a Virtual Private Network that employees must sign into to access the company data; however, just because they must sign in doesn't mean your VPN is secure. Cybersecurity hackers will look for vulnerable points in this time of high opportunity. Ensure you are using the strongest possible authentication and encryption protocols and that access is limited to those who have a legitimate business reason. Update and patch your systems now so that moving forward you have structures in place for an up-to-date VPN.
3. Set Secure Passwords
Password safety is a great way to protect company data. Employees often make jokes about password safety, some even admitting they use the same password from device to device. Educating remote workers about setting strong passwords is key to securing company data.
An example of a simple step is offering password safety training for employees. Start with the basics of keeping passwords strong, such as regularly updating them, avoiding the obvious, developing long passwords, and using a variety of character types. Stress why it’s important to avoid using the same password over and over.
4. Encrypt Devices and Documents
It’s simply not enough to update your operating systems and use that as your only defense against security breaches. You will need to ensure that your data and devices are encrypted from the start. You may be wondering, “What is encryption?” In a few words, encryption takes readable data and alters it so that it appears random. Things like your iPhone are encrypted and can be difficult for hackers to crack.
Encryption types into two categories. Symmetric uses a single password to encrypt and decrypt. Asymmetric uses a public key to encrypt and a private key to decrypt. You can talk to your IT department about which is best for your business. Ask them to encrypt devices and documents, so employees don’t have to worry about it.
Final Thoughts
Working from home doesn’t have to jeopardize your data security. The more remote workers are educated on these top cybersecurity tips, the more confident you can feel that they are doing everything they can to protect their data. There is no one way to keep your data safe; following these tips and continuing to monitor as needed is critical.
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Originally published 10/26/20 - Updated 5/11/23