Five Best Security Practices For Working Remotely

While most of us are now having to work from home, security issues is a topic that should be addressed. Especially during this time of uncertainty.  As a dedicated managed service IT provider & IT support team, we are here to share a few security tips and best practices.

Below are a few tips for best practices when working from home, and accessing your company’s business network or resources through your home internet.

Use a VPN

If possible, setup and use a VPN to access the resources at your office. This ensures the data being accessed is secured from point A to point B. An alternative would be to remotely connect to your work computer using a remote control software and accessing the resources you need that way.

Avoid Pop-ups, Unknown Emails and Links

This is still of utmost importance. Beware of phishing scams. Phishers try to trick you into clicking on a link that may result in a security breach. According to Norton, 48% of phishing attempts were successful as of last year.

Don’t save your work locally on your PC

We strongly suggest that you save all your work to your dedicated company’s server. Follow your company rules about how and where to appropriately save these files. It’s best practice because the company doesn’t have control over your home network and cant guarantee the security and confidentiality of the data outside its controlled environment. It’s also likely the company has a backup plan implemented for their servers and items saved locally to your device will not be included in the backups.

Defend Against COVID-19 Cyber Scams

Many Cyber threat actors are taking advantage of the “Coronavirus” by sending malicious attachments or links to fraudulent websites to trick victims into revealing sensitive information or donating to fraudulent charities or causes. Exercise caution with any emails, social media pleas, texts, or calls related to COVID-19.

Lock your PC when unattended & connect to trusted networks only

When taking a break or lunch this best practice serves to protect the data when your PC is left unattended. Be sure you know what network you are connecting to, don’t connect and do work from an open, unsecure network.

As we are all uncertain how long the new workforce shift, working remotely will last, we hope you implement these five best security practices to secure your home and business networks. In addition, please follow any additional policies and procedures put in place by your company. If you’re in need of any technical support, please reach out to us and we’ll be happy to help whenever possible.