When the pandemic hit in 2020, many people have transitioned to working remotely. And that sudden transition has left many companies scrambling to implement security protocols, causing higher risks of cyberattacks. In fact, according to a report, remote workers caused 20% of the overall organization’s security breaches.
Now, as we start embracing digitalization, long-term remote work arrangements are becoming more common. In line with this, the need for advanced security against data breaches and other cyberattacks is also getting high. Luckily, our article will go over some security tips you can use for your remote work. But before we do that, let’s get a clear understanding of why remote security is essential for people on a work-from-home setup.
Do You Need Remote Work Security?
When you use your personal device when working from home, there are high chances of data breaches and cyberattacks. And if you happen to be the cause of losing your company’s data from threat actors, you might also lose your job. In the worst-case scenario, you might also get jailed. Therefore, you have to be equipped with knowledge of security practices. Here are some tips you can apply while working from home.
Remote Working Security Tips
1. Use Strong And Complex Passwords.
One of the first things you need to do when working from home is secure your password. Since you’re using your company’s tools and holding clients’ sensitive information, you must ensure that no one gets access to them.
To do that, using a strong password is a must. Create complex passwords using different combinations of letters, numbers, and even symbols. And make it a habit to update them regularly for enhanced security.
Using two-factor authentication (2FA) for online accounts is also advised. It adds an extra layer of security against hackers attempting to access your accounts without authorization.
2. Install Antivirus Software.
To protect your employer’s system from viruses, malware, and other cyber threats, it is a must to install antivirus software. Having these programs installed on your computer is a good idea, especially if you often download new apps and open attachments from unknown sources. They will scan the files you download from the internet to ensure they’re safe to use or not.
3. Keep Your Device And Programs Updated.
If your system has a newer version, make sure to install the updates right away. Keep in mind that software companies release new versions of their programs to add extra features and improve functionality. That said, updating your device and the programs installed to the latest version is a good idea for added security. You can set automatic updates to avoid the hassle of checking for a new version every time.
4. Secure Your Wifi and Network.
You are responsible for protecting your home network whether or not you utilize your employer’s equipment. Doing so will increase the security of your home office. If you’re using the router’s default password, change it to a new and complex one. Hackers know default passwords, making them weaknesses in the network and Wi-Fi security. With a vulnerable router, a hacker might access your devices and web traffic.
Also, don’t ever use public Wi-Fi for your remote work. Yes, they are free, but they can also threaten your security. Hackers can quickly intercept messages sent over public Wi-Fi networks and obtain your login information. Without your awareness, they can also put trackers and keyloggers on your network. Don’t risk connecting to a public Wi-Fi network as much as possible.
5. Use a VPN.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) lets you surf the internet freely and privately. It encrypts all internet traffic and routes them through a secure connection. In addition, since you’re allowed to use an IP address from another location, you’ll also have access to sites unavailable to your region. So, you’re ensuring security while benefiting from extra features when using a VPN for work.
6. Beware of Phishing.
Phishing emails attempt to steal login and personal information. So, if you receive one, never try to open it. You can easily identify a phishing email if it’s from something you didn’t join, has misspelled words on the subject, or if the sender is someone you don’t know.
7. Always Back Up Your Data
Knowing that you have a backup of your data stored elsewhere gives you peace of mind. At work, especially in a remote setup, it’s one of the most important. If something goes wrong with your device, you won’t risk losing anything if you back up data because you can quickly restore it from the backup file.
Deeper Network As A Great Tool For Security
Remote work makes people have more need for network security and privacy. And that’s what Deeper Network offers—it protects you in many ways. Deeper allows for a more secure and private internet experience using a Decentralized Private Network (DPN). From the word “decentralized,” you already know that it also utilizes blockchain. And yes, you read that right! Besides network security, Deeper integrates blockchain and the sharing economy.
The good thing about DPN is that it’s serverless, which means that your data can never be stored or used by anyone other than you. In other words, you have complete control over your data.
And as you work remotely, Deeper Network will provide you with seven layers of cybersecurity protection while giving you censor-free access to the internet.