Security Tips While Working Remotely
Since the pandemic hit the globe, working from home has become more widespread. And while the pandemic is fading, experts predict that working remotely will stay prevalent across numerous sectors. Additionally, while working from home has proven to have many benefits for both employees and organizations, it has exposed them to cybersecurity risks.
Therefore, it is essential to give serious deliberation to cybersecurity. By following these tips, you can prevent or mitigate most of the remote working cybersecurity threats.
Virtualization
Even though it is a concept that is almost fifty years old, virtualization has significantly advanced and can satisfy multifaceted apps that are being developed. Fifty percent of servers run on virtual machines and it is predicted that by 2024, an estimated seventy percent of computers will run on VMs. So, while virtualization is becoming prevalent, the main concern is how to maintain safe levels of integrity and security.
One of the best ways to run your virtual machine is through hypervisor security. A hypervisor, also known as Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) is software that is used to create and operate VMs. Most common hypervisor types work by separating computers software from its hardware. On the other hand, hypervisor security is the process of making sure that the hypervisor is secure throughout.
Use a VPN
A virtual private network can create a safe connection between your remote workers’ devices and your company network. Also, a VPN means that all the data sent through your network is safe and protected making sure that all your files are protected.The only downside with a VPN is that depending on the documents your workers are working on and the application being used, you will need higher bandwidth. Also, VPN can bring in malware; therefore, you should make sure that your employees comply with your security policies.
Train your employees
You employees don’t have to live in fear of jeopardizing your company’s data safety. All you have to do is to provide them with the needed cybersecurity training, particularly when they will be using their devices. Your employees must be trained to be able to identify any abnormal computer activities that can be an indication of malware.
Additionally, they should be ready for phishing efforts and be trained to report any suspicious activities. Remember that all businesses are not the same. Therefore, depending on your business, your employees might need a direct connection to your company’s network or collaboration tools, or both.
Set up a multi-factor authentication
This is an authentication technique that requires users to give two or more authentication factors to get access to something; for instance, an app, VPN, or an online account. Instead of asking for only the user name and password, an MFA will require the users to give additional verification factors to lower the likelihood of a cyber-attack, as hackers are less likely to have all pieces of information needed for verification.
Get rid of orphan accounts
These are accounts that are old and have data including passwords, usernames, emails, and much other information that might attract cybercriminals. Such accounts normally belong to former workers that have no single connection to your company. They have moved on and their accounts are still in your company’s network. And if you don’t know about the accounts’ existence, you will have a hard time finding them. Hackers can use the credentials in the orphan accounts to gain entry into your company’s network.
Bottom line
Working from home has many benefits; however, it comes with a duty to maintain security principles that would be available in office work. Regardless of the size and type of your business, there is always a solution to help protect your data and reputation. So, by establishing good habits like getting rid of orphan accounts, using MFA, training your employees, and virtualization, you can help keep your environment secure.
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