4 Best Cybersecurity Practices for Remote Workforces
Regarding the current and imminent plans of where and how workforces in a company setup are organized, it’s clear that there have been so many changes in the past few years. It’s now evident that sharing a single physical space with colleagues or seniors is not necessarily important to interact and collaborate. Whereas the adoption of working from home (WFH) or simply remote workforce model augmented during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s anticipated to stay even after the pandemic. Nevertheless, there are concerns about cybersecurity associated with remote working, around establishing a robust information security program for remote workforces. This blog post outlines some of the best cybersecurity remote working practices that should be established.
1. Device security
When employees are working from one office or building, the IT team can monitor network traffic and deploy various data security techniques/technologies to thwart potential cyber-attacks. On contrary, a remote working model deals with more than one network in different locations. The onus of guaranteeing network security is solely bestowed on the employees, who most likely aren’t vigilant or proficient as the data security teams. While most organizations adopt virtual private networks (VPN) to allow their remotely working employees to join cooperate networks, this is an unsustainable band-aid strategy that cannot be used for long. The best alternative is to ensure all the devices, equipment, and networks are secure by developing security infrastructures that only support devices characterized by mobile device management (MDM) solutions. The system should enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA), capable of installing software patches and anti-malware software, and have visibility at the device level.
2. Secure information storage and sharing
The failure to use secure cloud-powered file storage and sharing solutions can be a source of major troubles for the business. Notwithstanding, these platforms are characterized by various downsides as the users do not own, or control them, making it difficult to manage the security part. Rather, any business that adopts the remote working model can choose a cloud-based solution that offers accessibility to workers regardless of their physical location and adds an extra cybersecurity protection layer to secure sensitive, valuable business data.
3. Consistent authorization
The use of different devices to log into web-based applications can deter perimeter-based security. This is brought by the application of the password as the only main authorization technique. To bolster the authentication process, and ensure data security, users should be required to provide additional credentials (two-factor authentication) to verify their identity.
4. Keeping an eye
Typically, users (employees) are the most vulnerable elements in any cybersecurity program. Often, they do not make mistakes wittingly. Scammers/spammers orchestrate phishing attacks using sophisticated tactics and solutions such as social engineering. These techniques take advantage of the curiosity, greed, and ignorance of most users. The solution is to establish frequent cybersecurity training for employees. Also, they should be kept updated on trending scams, particularly those targeting industries and businesses.
Final thoughts
Remote working does not create cybersecurity problems. It does, however, expose security gaps. So, every business, irrespective of its size should establish a robust security risk management plan to guarantee a continuous, proactive approach to information security. Simpatico Systems can help you through every step of the process from individual device protection, to safe file-sharing, to training your team on safe practices regularly.
