cybersecurity

7 Cybersecurity Tips For Remote Workers

Posted on by Dan Lauritzen
Man using business computer support services
23
Oct

7 Cybersecurity Tips For Remote Workers

Let’s face it—working from home doesn’t offer the same level of cybersecurity as working in an office. Even with a laptop or computer that’s provided by the company, who’s there to make sure that the network is stable, or to make sure an email isn’t a phishing scam?

This is an especially pertinent issue when you consider how common remote work has become—a recent study showed that 58% of Americans had the opportunity to work remotely in 2023. Knowing this, we’re here to provide you with only the best cybersecurity tips for your remote workers, and to offer some advice about business computer support services.

The Cybersecurity Risks of Remote Work

To understand why cybersecurity is important for remote work, it’s essential to first look at the risks that come with working remotely. Some of the main risks include:

  • Unsecured networks: Working from home means using personal Wi-Fi networks that may not be as secure as corporate ones.
  • Phishing scams: Employees are more vulnerable to clicking on malicious links or attachments when they’re not in a controlled office environment.
  • Lack of monitoring: Without in-person supervision, it’s easier for employees to engage in risky online behavior without being noticed.

Cybersecurity is a crucial aspect of remote work that cannot be overlooked. As the workforce becomes more distributed, it’s more important than ever to ensure that individuals working from home are armed with business computer support services to protect themselves and their company from potential cyber threats.

7 Cybersecurity Tips For Remote Workers

To mitigate these security risks, your remote workers should utilize these best practices.

1. Secure Your Home Network

One of the first steps to ensuring remote security is securing your home network. This means using a strong password, enabling WPA2 or better encryption, and enabling guest networks on your Wi-Fi router. 

In addition, avoid sharing your primary network with guests. For extra security, consider setting up a separate Wi-Fi network exclusively designated for devices such as Alexa, Google Home, cameras, and similar smart devices.

2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords 

Whether it’s for your computer, email, or any other accounts you use for work, make sure to use strong and unique passwords. Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords, and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.

3.  Secure Your Devices

Confirm that all your remote work devices (laptop, phone, tablet) have the latest software updates and security patches. Install antivirus software, enable firewalls, and use biometric authentication methods where available. All these measures will help prevent unauthorized access to your devices and data.

4. Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts 

Phishing scams continue to be a major threat to remote workers since they rely on social engineering tactics to trick individuals into giving up sensitive information. Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages, and never click on links or open attachments from unknown sources.

Consider business computer support services to monitor incoming emails and filter the content for phishing attempts.

5. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)  

A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to intercept sensitive data. Using a VPN is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks because they are a lot more susceptible to cyber-attacks.

6. Secure Video Conferencing 

With remote work comes the increased use of video conferencing tools, which can also pose security risks if not used properly. Make sure to use safe video conferencing software and utilize features like password protection and waiting rooms.

7. Implement Personal Computer Support 

If a remote worker’s personal computer is compromised, it could put the entire company at risk. Consider offering business computer support services for employees’ personal computers to ensure that they are secure and up-to-date.

Keep Your Remote Workforce Secure With Simple Systems

Remote work is here to stay, and so are the security challenges that come with it. Working with Simple Systems to utilize business computer support services will ensure the safety of your remote workers—plus any sensitive data they might have access to. Contact one of our team members to set up proactive security measures today.

Dan Lauritzen

Dan is the Founder and CEO of Simple Systems, an IT support company based in Salt Lake City, Utah providing Managed IT Services for a host of clients with all the services of a full-time IT staff without the expense. Our primary goal is to provide the same service to our clients that we expect from others. Our work gets done quickly – we tend to delight and surprise our clients by finishing before the deadline. Simple Systems (SS) first opened its doors in 2007. Over the past 9 years, we have enjoyed working closely with 100’s of small businesses and home users around the Salt Lake Valley. In 2009, SS was honored to be nominated in the Utah Student 25. We are proud of this distinction and look forward to continued growth. In 2012, we opened our retail location in Holladay, Utah to provide home PC customers a more cost effective way to have service and support.