Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the organizations globally moved their employees to a remote mode that increased the risk of security threats and vulnerabilities that lead to leaks of critical data and core information systems breaches.
It is challenging enough for cyber security teams to constantly defend an organization’s networks from cybercriminals, and malicious insiders when the workforce operates from the controlled environment of office premises. Working from home, where a majority of staff may use unprotected personal networks, opens up organizations to a completely different level of fraud and cybercrime risks. Some of the best security practices organizations can recommend their employees to consider for secure remote working.
1. Use antivirus software-
Antivirus software is important to have on your personal computer, but its importance is even bigger if you are using your own computer for working.
2. Secure your home network-
Make sure you have your WiFi network encrypted. If your WiFi requires a password, then it’s a good start. If not access your router settings to change this.
3. Avoid oversharing your screen –
During online meetings be cautious when sharing your screen. If possible don’t leave any windows open that you don’t want to share.
4. Don’t share personal info in messages or social media-
Related to phishing and scams don’t share any personal information on messages or emails. It could be just another case of phishing.
5. Ensure your privacy with a VPN
If you are using a computer provided by the employer, this should be checked by you. If you are using your own computer, get a VPN to secure your connection and encrypt your data.
6. Update your software and operating systems
It is important to allow automatic updates on your devices and systems like your computers, mobiles. Often software updates are developed to address security issues.
7. Implement multi-factor authentication-
It is one of the most effective controls you can implement to prevent unauthorized access to computers, applications, and online services.
8. Use strong and unique passphrases-
Strong passphrases are your first line of defense. Enable a strong and unique passphrase on portable devices such as laptops, mobile phones, tablets.
9. Use trusted sources for information-
Cybercriminals use popular and trending topics such as covid-19 to spread disinformation or scam people. impersonating, cloning, or creating websites to look genuine is one way to do this.
10. Secure your device when not in use-
It’s much easier to access your information if other people have access to your devices. Do not leave your device unattended and lock your computer when not in use.
11. Security Awareness Training –
Finally, Despite the focus on technology and innovation, effective security still requires individuals who can bring deep expertise and a strategic perspective to the cyber fight. Tools are important, but attackers are masters at circumventing them. To be effective, cybersecurity requires a combination of people, processes, and technology. Phishing emails, spyware, hacking, and data theft have become a natural part of our digital everyday lives.
Organizations should ensure that their employees are taught the best practices against cyber threats through cyber awareness training. The E Com Security Academy cloud-enabled learning platform offers intuitive security awareness and cyber skills training that helps an organization’s workforce learn to make risk-based decisions and develop best practices in crisis communications. The training programs are designed to improve employees’ awareness and competencies to become cyber aware and actively help protect your organization against cybercrime and regulatory consequences.