Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic started, remote work has become the new norm for many companies. And while this arrangement has its advantages, it also opens up new opportunities for cybercriminals to target employees working outside the office.
Here are some ways you can keep your remote workers safe from cyberattacks:
Use a VPN
One of the best ways to protect your remote workers is to have them use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) whenever they connect to the internet. A VPN encrypts all internet traffic and prevents outsiders from snooping on your employees’ online activities.
Keep Software Up-to-Date
Make sure all the software your remote workers use is always up-to-date. This includes not only the operating system but also all applications, including web browsers, email clients, and office suites. Outdated software is often full of security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals.
Use Strong Passwords
Another important way to keep your remote workers safe is to enforce the use of strong passwords. Complex passwords are much harder to crack than simple ones, so make sure your employees use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols in their passwords. Additionally, they should never reuse the same password on different websites or services.
Educate Your Employees about Cybersecurity
One of the best ways to keep your remote workers safe is to educate them about cybersecurity. Make sure they know how to spot phishing emails, keep their passwords secure, and avoid clicking on links from unknown sources. The more your employees know about cybersecurity, the less likely they are to fall victim to a cyberattack.
Use Two-Factor Authentication
In addition to strong passwords, you should also encourage your remote workers to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to enter a code from their mobile phones in addition to their passwords. This makes it much harder for cybercriminals to gain access to accounts, even if they have stolen a password.
Be Careful with Email Attachments
Phishing attacks are one of the most common ways cybercriminals target remote workers. These attacks usually involve sending emails that appear to be from a legitimate company or website but actually contain malicious attachments or links. Make sure your employees know how to spot phishing emails and never click on any links or open any attachments unless they’re absolutely sure it’s safe to do so.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Networks
Public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously insecure, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. If your employees need to use public Wi-Fi, make sure they connect to a VPN first. This will encrypt all their internet traffic and help protect them from hackers.
Use Secure File Sharing Services
If your remote workers need to share files with each other or with people outside the company, make sure they use a secure file sharing service. These services provide encryption and other security features that help protect sensitive files from being accessed by unauthorized individuals.
Now that you know how to keep your remote workers safe from cyberattacks, put these tips into practice and help make sure your employees are working in a secure environment.