Securing Your Business in Remote Work Settings: 4 Essential Tips
Two decades ago, imagining concepts like remote work or virtual offices seemed improbable. Today's advanced technology enables widespread remote work, eliminating long commutes and reducing office space costs. However, it introduces a layer of complexity to your IT environment and poses new security risks. Safeguarding your business in this evolving landscape is crucial. Whether you're an advocate of telecommuting or provide flexible work options, implementing key measures is essential to protecting a company and your customer data. Here are four “must-haves” for any business navigating remote work challenges…
#1: SECURE VPN TECHNOLOGY
Many employees admit to using public Wi-Fi for work, and 21% leave devices unattended while remote. Responding to emails in line or on personal phones is tempting, but it risks others spying on you. Enter VPNs – virtual private networks. These allow secure access, even on public Wi-Fi. A VPN masks location and encrypts data, adding a layer of protection against unauthorized access to sensitive company info, although online movements may still be tracked by cookies.
#2: MULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION
Remote work brings the risk of unauthorized logins, unlike the controlled office environment. Home settings vary, making it easy for outsiders to access IT systems. Guessing simple passwords becomes a threat. Multi-factor authentication adds protection, requiring users to provide two or more proofs for access—something known (like a PIN) and something possessed (like a one-time code). Advanced options include fingerprint or facial recognition (Windows Hello). This extra layer minimizes the risk of unauthorized access to your business systems.
#3: ACCESS CONTROL
Controlling access levels for remote workers is crucial. Not everyone requires access to all IT systems. Effective access control involves knowing who should access your company data (authorization) and ensuring the correct person is granted access (authentication). Gatekeepers, like multi-factor authentication, play a role in ensuring the right individual accesses the appropriate systems.
Access control is vital for every business, particularly when employees work remotely and need access to company resources. Restricting access to only the necessary systems and data minimizes the risk of information leaks and security breaches.
#4: SECURITY TRAINING
While the mentioned tools enhance business safety, they don't cover human errors. An essential element involves security training for all remote staff. Surprisingly, many lack a deep understanding of technology. Security training helps employees grasp the IT risks associated with remote work. Documenting a clear security policy and best practices educates remote staff on keeping themselves and the company secure. Distribute a straightforward security policy outlining threat identification, problem reporting, and steps to reduce risks. Ensure it's easily understandable for all team members, regardless of their IT proficiency.
Ensure These Must-Haves Aren’t Missed
In summary, every organization should incorporate these four essentials for safeguarding their business and remote staff:
Secure VPN technology
Multi-factor authentication
Access control
Security training
By implementing these measures, you empower your remote team with the knowledge and tools to secure your company data. Rest assured, you maintain control over your remote workers' IT environment, ensuring that sensitive company data remains accessible only to authorized users.
If these precautions don't provide ample reassurance, consider hiring someone to manage and monitor your IT infrastructure. This ensures quick alerts to potential threats and provides a resource for remote workers facing IT issues or suspected security breaches.
Need assistance managing your IT? Contact us to learn more about our Managed IT Services.
