After the pandemic, millions of individuals started doing their jobs from home. There are many benefits to working remotely, which is why many companies have kept it in place even though it is safe to return to the regular work environment. There are, however, several cybersecurity concerns to address when employees perform work at home. Otherwise, the company’s network and confidential information could be at risk.
What are Cybersecurity Threats to my Safety If I Work Remotely?
The standard safeguards in an office network are not present when working from home. Employees only access the internet via their private networks, and many use the same device for work and personal purposes. Many potential security vulnerabilities can occur as a result, which could cause losses for the business.
Unsafe Individual Connections
These days, we have access to antivirus programs that update automatically whenever the user connects to the internet, which aids in protecting local area networks. Most people, however, are unaware that router software requires regular updating. If you don’t take this precaution, hackers might gain unauthorized access to your home network and, by extension, your company’s sensitive information.
Heavier Dependence on Technology
Currently, there is a reliance on web-based resources for conducting a wide range of commercial operations. Video conferencing, banking, and order fulfillment are just a few examples of the many tasks that happen online. The increased accessibility of online resources comes with the risk of increased attempts at data breaches.
Deficiencies in Cybersecurity Education
In the office, information technology (IT) professionals will handle data security concerns. But when you work remotely, you don’t have that safety net. When working from home, employees must be well-versed in these concerns. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as most workers lack the expertise to avoid these cybersecurity risks.
Inattention and exhaustion
Human mistakes are still the leading cause of data breaches. This issue is especially true with remote work. Studies show that over 40% of remote workers report feeling exhausted regularly. Balancing work and personal responsibilities distracts them from applying proper cybersecurity measures and clouds their judgment. These factors can enhance the likelihood that a remote worker will unwittingly provide hackers access to sensitive company data.
Poor Password Security
Hackers will try to break into company networks via remote workers by guessing or cracking user credentials. It’s the quickest approach, yet many individuals still employ insecure passwords, even for crucial accounts.
Internet Access with Mobile Devices
In a typical workplace, all employees use computers provided by the company, which have been pre-checked for malware and viruses. However, many workers use their laptops or smartphones when working from home, and these devices often lack proper information technology security safeguards like data encryption.
Protecting Workers Who Do Work Remotely From Cybersecurity Threats
Telecommuting can have a positive impact on one’s career. Forge ahead with this plan if you believe it will benefit your business. However, you need to guarantee the safety of the remote operations. That’s where our services come in!
If you need help with protecting your business and remote employees from malware and other forms of cybercrime, our team of professionals can help. Reach out to us today to discuss how we can tailor our cybersecurity services to your unique needs.
