Most businesses have employees who work remotely. But as their numbers increase, so too do the security risks. To safeguard their data (and yours) against a devastating cyberattack, we recommend giving remote workers the tools, training and support they need to:
- Secure their home networks. Unsecured home networks are as vulnerable as any free WiFi hotspot. Work with remote users, including providing a security-settings checklist, to help them password-protect home networks and enable strong encryption.
- Update software and plug-ins regularly. Hackers routinely exploit known vulnerabilities in popular software and plug-ins. Java, Adobe Flash and Adobe Reader are familiar examples. Best practice: regularly update all software, including mobile operating systems, on all devices, using automatic updating whenever possible.
- Install VPN on mobile devices. Most companies that let users work remotely use a Virtual Private Network. To strike a balance between security and user convenience, have your IT staff choose a VPN app they like and ask remote employees to install it on their phones and tablets. Provide tips and training, if necessary. The extra effort will certainly pay off.
- Change default passwords. "Remote workers are highly likely to connect corporate devices to personal networks and devices," cautions a Network World article on mobile security, citing wireless printers, wireless routers and home WiFi as examples. "End users should be instructed to change default passwords on these devices because they are often accessible online and available to hackers to easily use in an attack."
Need assistance with remote-worker strategy or technology implementation? Call TeamLogic IT today.