Data Security Tips for the Remote Workforce

By Curtis Jones on May 16, 2018 - Fact checked by Dumb Little Man

by Curtis Jones May 16, 2018

As technology advances at a rapid pace, hackers and cybercriminals are finding it easier to hack into a company’s system to steal data. According to the SMB cybersecurity report, almost 43% of all small businesses in the United States suffered through a data breach and were victims of cybercrime in 2016.

Therefore, it is important for you to develop and implement the best cyber data security tips to prevent such attacks from taking place.

What Are the Threats?

Data Loss and Device Failure

Forgetting to back up your data and not updating your device on a regular basis can cause huge problems. You could lose data due to human error, experience file corruption or even overheating of your device. This makes it important that you keep a backup of your data in your Cloud accounts so you can easily access the information that you need.

Stolen Devices

Another threat that can harm your business operations is when your device gets stolen and the criminals get access to your company’s information. People often steal devices in order to sell them for cash.

Cybercrime

Cybercrime is a virtual crime which happens online. It includes stealing of personal and financial information.

There are rules and laws that are created to stop such illegal activities. Whenever you see any illegal activity on online platforms, you should report it to the authorities right away.

How Can You Enhance the Security for Remote Employees?

Create Backups and Recovery Plans

Having backups and recovery plans are the best strategies you can implement. You should also have regularly scheduled system cleanings and updates to maintain the security of your company’s system.

Backing up information is extremely important because it helps restore the original data in case you lose your device or it gets compromised by hackers or intruders.

Spread Knowledge

The rules and regulations regarding security tend to change quite frequently because technology is advancing. This is why you need to update your security strategies to cope with the changing threats.

You need to research threats that can be harmful to your company so that you can educate your workforce for more effective security. Your employees play a vital role in the security of your company. They have crucial information, which can be extremely dangerous if leaked outside.

Update your employees regularly and get them the latest tools to fight the threats and defend against the attacks.

Use Two-Factor Authentication

In order to enhance the security of your company, you should use a Two-Factor Authentication as it makes it more difficult for hackers to operate. The Two-Factor Authentication system will lock your account and require a password along with a code to unlock it. This is a strong type of system that keeps unauthorized people away from your accounts.

Update Your Software Automatically

When running a business, you need to update it on a regular basis. Waiting for an installation of the latest update is not an option. You need to have the latest version installed to serve your customers.

In addition to this, the latest versions allow for better performance because they include solutions that weren’t available previously.

Use VPN for Secure Networks

There are many employers that offer remote employees access to the secure network so that they can work without any obstacles. An encrypted connection will allow employees to safely and securely browse the internet while preventing third party interception.

Off-site employees should never use open or public Wi-Fi connections. They might get intercepted by hackers and the company information can get leaked. Employees should be provided a VPN so that they can easily work in a safe environment with no issues.

See Also: How to Set Up a VPN

Security Protocol and Access Controls

You should keep a constant check on the security protocol and access controls of your network because employees might not be using the information correctly. You need to keep an eye on the information that’s flowing in and out of your company in order to check for fraudulent activities.

Protect Smart Devices

You should protect the mobile devices of your organization at all times. This is to prevent unauthorized access to confidential information.

You can do that with strong passwords, photo recognition, thumb impressions, and pattern unlocking systems. In addition to those, you can use a two-factor authentication to enhance the security of your devices.

Security is of utmost importance and should not be taken for granted. You cannot compromise your organization’s security because hackers and cybercriminals are always looking for opportunities to hack into your system. That is why you need to implement these data security tips and strategies to ensure a safe working environment.