Considering the current popularity of remote operations, the security of your business’ resources should be one of your greatest concerns. While this process isn’t necessarily easy, remote work security isn’t something you can afford to neglect. Let’s take a few moments and walk through some of the most critical considerations to your office and its data security.
Acknowledging the Threat
It is important to recognize that chances your business will be attacked in one way or another, particularly when people are working remotely. Consider how well you’ve secured your business’ network infrastructure; have your team members have done the same in their homes? There are also many threats that specifically target many of the applications that are commonly used for remote work.
When enabling remote work, it’s crucial to recognize that your remote team faces increased security risks. It is vital they prioritize best practices that will help keep them secure.
Insulate Sensitive Information
Some of your business’ data may be of a more private, personally identifiable nature. This information needs to be particularly protected, denying any access to things like passwords, payment cards, or email addresses. Applying role-based access restrictions ensure employees only see necessary data, reducing the potential for cybercriminals to exploit their accounts.
It also doesn’t hurt to require your team to connect to your infrastructure, rather than pulling data to their own devices. That way, any changes they make will be stored centrally, not on their individual device.
Use a Virtual Private Network
A virtual private network helps to protect your data from spying eyes as your team members work remotely. While it isn’t a cybersecurity cure-all, you can at least know that the encryption of the VPN is keeping your data safe in transit.
Require Multiple Forms of Authentication
You should always have your data storage protected with the most secure solutions available. Multi-factor authentication has become a popular choice, with options ranging from one-time generated access codes to biometrics. This helps you keep your data locked down and inaccessible to all except those whose roles call for it.
Does remote work make your security a little more challenging to ensure? Sure, but during a time when the safest way to operate is remotely, the little extra effort now will be well worth it in the long term.
