COVID situation is getting worse in the last few months. A new surge has been seen this winter all over the world. Due to this, many countries have lockdown high-risk areas. Hence many companies have allowed their employees to work remotely from their homes.
These are tough times for the employees too. Because we are not used to working from home. Working remotely means you have to access company files and information from home. In-office, there is always a cybersecurity infrastructure to secure data. But how you can manage cybersecurity while from home is the question.
Cybersecurity is really important for employees. A mistake, and you will hand over your company’s data and login details. Hence, you need to understand its importance. You have to ensure that you are connected to a secure network, and all of your data is encrypted. Working from home is a good thing but having proper cybersecurity hygiene is also essential.
5 Remote Working Cybersecurity Tips
Identity theft is on the rise as so many people are working remotely from their homes. So, making sure that your personal data is secured is more important than ever. If someone has access to your personal data, he or she can file tax refunds in your name, use your credit card, bank accounts. In worse cases, they can use your name in crime.
Before people come to your doorstep or you see your bank account drained, take precautions to protect your identity. Following five tips will help safeguard your data.
1. Strong Passwords
First of all, you need to password-protect your devices. As you are working remotely, it is essential to protect all of your devices if you lose them. On the other hand, you also need to make sure how to choose a password.
Choosing a simple password that anyone can guess is not a good idea. It makes your devices vulnerable. Hence, it would help if you created strong passwords by including upper and lower cases, symbols, and numbers. Avoid using your birth date and name in the passwords.
2. Use A Virtual Personal Network
Many people use public networks to access the internet without knowing that they are at risk. Maybe you visit a café, library or at an airport. You have free internet and want to submit your work. Before you log in to your accounts, keep in mind that these sources lack data encryption. Anyone on the network can eavesdrop on what you are doing and sharing on the internet.
Hence, it is important to take precautions when you are using public Wi-Fi. The best way to ensure that your data is encrypted is to use a VPN. The provider will keep your browsing history and all the data secured.
3. Keep Your Device updated
Most people do not take updates seriously. They think that they are not necessary and can be done anytime. Basically, these updates of your mobile phone, computer or tablet contain security updates too. Keep in mind that you are working remotely and there is no IT expert to help you. Whenever a pop-up comes to remind you of an update, install it as soon as possible. Otherwise, you will compromise the security of your devices.
Whenever a manufacturer finds a security hole, they implement the measures to secure your device. So, at any given time, make sure that you are using the latest version.
4. Personal Data Sharing Over the Phone
Many people have reported that they have received calls from people who claim to be their relatives. Governments are taking action against these crimes. In that way, people got their personal data and then used it for ransom afterward.
That is why; it is important to not share your personal information over the phone. Maybe someone calls you and claims to be your colleague at the office. No matter how genuine a person sounds, never send your personal data over the phone.
5. Offline Protection
We have discussed enough securing online, but you should take precautions offline as well. There are malicious people around you who can access data from your device. Whenever someone tries to use your phone, you need to make sure that your personal documents are locked up in a safe. Whenever you leave the house, you must carry minimal documents with you. Just take those things that are necessary for daily transactions. Anywhere you see that someone is asking to fill in your personal information, you should inquire why they need it and use it.
Conclusion
There are lots of advantages to working remotely from home, but it comes with challenges as well. Most of the people who have started work from their home does not take cybersecurity seriously. It is easy to ignore the threat of identity theft until it happens to you or someone you know. You should take this threat seriously and make sure that all of your personal data is secure. Many people are working these days remotely due to COVID, and it is important to share this message with everyone.