One of the biggest perks offered by working remotely is location flexibility. However, as telecommuting becomes more common thanks to COVID-19, data and information security is becoming a bigger concern.
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From at-home workers using unsecured Wi-Fi networks to employees carrying confidential data and documents to public settings, remote work environments have increased security considerations for all businesses, big and small.
In fact, according to one report, up to 86% of business professionals believe that remote workers increase the possibility of a serious and costly data security breach. As a result, now is the time to act and protect the business’s confidential and sensitive information.
The first thing business leaders should do is educate employees about data security and how everyone has a responsibility to protect it. They should also start procedures and practices that will strengthen data security within their business. It is also necessary for remote workers to prioritize data security education and safe practices and commit to the measures. This includes things like establishing cybersecurity policies, implementing new tech gadgets like the buck boost transformer, and more. Keep reading for some more helpful tips to keep things safe and secure.
Create a Cybersecurity Policy
To protect company day, it is necessary to ensure that all workers know that data security is a priority. Some employees may not be aware that data security is something they need to focus on. This is true on a professional and personal level.
Some employees assume that if they don’t work directly with customer data or do not operate at upper levels in the company hierarchy, they don’t have to worry about data security. Organizations cannot afford to assume that employees have information or know about cybersecurity, so establishing a cybersecurity policy is so important. Ensure that all new and current employees review the policy and sign it, regardless of whether they work on-site or remotely.
Make sure the policy covers the reasoning behind the policy, to begin with, along with details outlining all the security protocols that employees are expected to know and comply with. There should also be information about how the company will support employees to ensure they comply.
Ensure Secure Internet Connections Are Used
One of the most common ways that company data is exposed is using an unsecured Wi-Fi network. Everyone knows how important it may be to get out of the in-home office, which is why many remote workers go to the library, coffee shop, or another location to work. This is a good break, but it can also lead to unintended exposure.
While a business does not want to limit where their remote workers can go and complete their work, they need to make sure they are educated about keeping company data secure.
The easiest solution to this problem is to make it a requirement for remote workers to use VPNs or virtual private networks. Using a VPN before signing on to a public Wi-Fi network protects the remote worker accesses’ internet traffic. This will allow remote employees to get out in the public and avoid putting company data at risk.
Keep in mind that not all VPNs are the same. It is necessary to ensure the organization uses the right VPN to verify that the VPN covers all factors and not just the last-mile encryption, which is not as safe as other options. Once the VPN standards are established, be sure to review the reputation of the provider and compare costs.
When it comes to keeping company data secure, taking steps to ensure remote workers know what to do is essential. This is the best way to prevent data breaches and to feel confident that sensitive information will not be accessed or intercepted. Being informed is the best way to ensure that data and information are safe and that no breaches occur. Businesses must take data security top-of-mind to ensure that confidential information is not leaked or intercepted when accessed by remote workers.