Remote workers need to be aware that cybercriminals are actively seeking out weak spots in their networks. Without the same level of protection as a physical office space, remote workers are at greater risk of becoming victims of cyber attacks. To reduce this risk and keep remote workers safe from cyber attacks, there are a few simple steps they can take:
1. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
To ensure the highest level of security, passwords should always contain a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. Furthermore, avoid using words that can easily be guessed or found online such as birthdays or pet names. To take it to an even greater degree of safety, two-factor authentication should also be enabled – this means users will have to confirm their identity with something unique like a code sent through text message or email.
2. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks and use a virtual private network (VPN).
Public Wi-Fi networks are less secure than private, encrypted connections, so if you must access the internet in a public place, connecting to a VPN is recommended to protect your data from potential hackers. Make sure that the VPN you choose uses strong encryption protocols and is from a reputable provider.
3. Keep devices up-to-date with the latest security patches and antivirus software.
Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in outdated operating systems and applications, making it important for remote workers to keep their devices updated with the latest security patches and install antivirus software where available. This will reduce the risk of malware infecting a device and help protect against malicious attacks.
4. Back up important data regularly.
If a device becomes infected with malware or is attacked by ransomware, having a recent backup can help restore any lost or damaged files. Be sure to store backups in an offsite location and encrypt them for added security.
5. Educate yourself on cybersecurity best practices.
It’s important for remote workers to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in cybersecurity, as well as any threats that may be targeting them. Following industry blogs and keeping an eye out for security updates from vendors can help ensure that you’re aware of potential risks and how to protect against them.
6. Use a secure cloud storage provider.
A reputable cloud storage provider will provide strong encryption protocols, reliable backups, and access controls to keep your data safe and secure while it’s stored in the cloud. Choose a provider with a good reputation for customer service and support so you can get help when needed.
7. Be cautious about clicking on suspicious links or attachments.
Phishing emails are one of the most common ways that cybercriminals attempt to gain access to a remote worker’s devices and networks. Before clicking on any link or attachment in an email, verify the source and contact information to make sure it’s legitimate. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t click on it – delete the email and report it as spam.
By following these steps, remote workers can reduce the risk of becoming victims of cybercrime and keep their business safe from attack. It’s also important to remind employees that they should never open suspicious emails, attachments, links or pop-ups as they are common vectors of attack used by attackers. With these measures in place, remote workers can stay secure while continuing to work remotely.