To keep data secure when employees work remotely through minimise risks, businesses must implement strong security protocols and ensure their staff are properly trained. This is essential to protecting sensitive information and maintaining business integrity. Remote work presents specific challenges, such as the risk of cyberattacks, data breaches and exposure to unsecured networks.
Why Is Data Security Important for Remote Work?
When employees work remotely, they often use personal devices, unsecured networks, or inadequate security practices. This leaves sensitive company data vulnerable to:
- Cyberattacks: Hackers target remote workers through phishing scams, malware, and ransomware.
- Data Breaches: Sensitive information may be exposed if proper security protocols aren’t in place.
- High Costs: A single data breach can cost companies thousands or even millions of pounds, not to mention the damage to their reputation.
By implementing strong security measures and training staff, businesses can safeguard their data and maintain productivity while supporting remote work.
For help with protecting your business from cyber attacks, see outsourced cybersecurity companies.
Train Staff to Be Safe When Working Remotely
Employees are the first line of defence against cyber threats. Carrying out proper training for employees can significantly reduce risks – and cover certain basics such as where to place your laptop after usage, which room you work in, keep any key information tucked away and what internet protocols you use.
Encourage employees to store work laptops away securely when not in use. Leaving devices unattended, even at home, increases the risk of theft or unauthorised access. For those handling physical documents, encourage employees to store them in locked drawers or cabinets is sensible to avoid them getting into the hands of the wrong people.
Use Dedicated Work Devices
Companies should encourage their staff to use different devices such as business mobile phones and laptops/computers for work – and not use the same ones for personal or private use.
Mixing work devices and personal use computers can expose company data. A personal laptop or phone may not have enough security or software on it necessary for external threats.
Similarly, other family members such as spouses or kids may have access to key information or respond to things that are not compliant.
Encourage staff to use separate devices for work and personal activities. Mixing work and personal use can expose company data to. By maintaining this separation, employees can better protect company information.
Always Use Secure Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication
Using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA) are vital for securing remote work environments.
- Use Complex Passwords: Encourage employees to create strong passwords with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
- Change Passwords Regularly and Mix Them Up: Passwords should be ideally changed every few weeks and different passwords should be used for different logins. Having the same password across the board makes you vulnerable to attacks if someone finds this out.
- Implement MFA: Require multi-factor authentication for accessing company systems. This adds an extra layer of security by verifying user identity through a secondary method, such as a phone app or email code.
Learn more about the importance of MFA and password management from trusted cybersecurity resources.
Use VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) To Secure Your Data When Working At Home
VPNs are virtual private networks and by logging in, it is able to encrypt any work that you are doing. A VPN will protect sensitive information from being intercepted by hackers on public or home networks, ensuring that employees can safely access company resources without exposing them to unauthorised users. To maximise security, businesses should provide a reliable VPN solution and mandate its use for all remote workers.
Use Secure Collaboration Tools When Working Remotely
Collaboration tools are critical for remote teams, but not all tools are secure. Choose tools that prioritise data encryption and user authentication.
- Encrypted Communication: Select platforms that encrypt messages, calls, and file transfers. Examples include Microsoft Teams and Zoom with end-to-end encryption.
- Access Controls: Opt for tools that allow you to manage user permissions and restrict access to sensitive data.
Explore this guide on using cloud tools for further insights and steps on managing your data.
Keeping data secure while employees work remotely requires a combination of training, technology, and vigilance. By educating staff, enforcing robust password policies, using VPNs, and choosing secure collaboration tools, businesses can minimise risks and maintain data integrity.
Proactive measures today can save your business from costly breaches tomorrow. Prioritise security and empower your remote workforce to work safely and effectively.
Speak To Rydal Group About Remote Working Solutions
Rydal Group offers effective remote working solutions to help you manage remote teams and works in the best way possible. Through a combination of advanced desk phones, cyber solutions and a suite of business communication apps, your remote team can be highly efficient and operating in a secure and safe environment.
We also have some exciting solutions for hybrid working setups, allowing staff members to maximise efficiency when working both in the office and at home.
For more information, speak to our team today on 01733 511 116 or enquire here online.