Remote work has become popular due to its flexibility and convenience for employees. Remote work also reduces the need for larger office space. Some people even say they get more work done at home because there are fewer distractions.
Studies show that people waste 56% less time when they work from home compared to being in the office. But there are some downsides to remote work, especially when it comes to cybersecurity. It's not as easy to keep your devices and internet connection safe when you're not in the office.
About 63% of businesses have had their data hacked because of remote workers.
Rest assured that there is no cause for concern. You don't have to give up remote work to stay safe. You just need to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself. Here are some of the most common cybersecurity risks of remote work, along with tips for how to deal with them:
1. Weak Passwords and No Multi-Factor Authentication: Using easy-to-guess passwords or using the same password for lots of accounts makes it easy for hackers to break in. To stay safe, use strong, unique passwords for each account, and turn on multi-factor authentication whenever you can.
2. Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks: When you're working from home or in a coffee shop, you're often using public Wi-Fi that's not very secure. To keep your data safe, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection.
3. Phishing Attacks: Hackers often try to trick people into giving them their passwords or downloading malware by sending fake emails or messages. Be careful about clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, and always double-check the sender's email address.
4. Insecure Home Network Devices: Smart devices like thermostats and security cameras can be easy targets for hackers if you don't set them up securely. Make sure to change the default passwords on your smart devices and keep them updated with the latest software.
5. Lack of Security Updates: Keeping your devices and software up to date is crucial for staying safe online. Set your devices to update automatically whenever possible, and make sure to install updates as soon as they're available.
6. Data Backup and Recovery: If your device gets hacked or stops working, you could lose all your important files. Make sure to back up your data regularly to a secure cloud storage service or an external hard drive.
7. Insufficient Employee Training: Many companies don't provide enough training on how to stay safe online. Make sure to educate yourself about cybersecurity best practices, like how to spot phishing emails and create strong passwords.
If you need help staying safe while working remotely, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you navigate the world of cybersecurity and keep your data secure.
Need to learn more? We can help!
Contact C&C Office Solutions | info@ccofficesolutions.com | (410) 864-0904
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