As we continue to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to consider the security risks associated with remote workers. It’s essential to carefully assess your company’s preparedness for possible cyberattacks in light of recent events. Every new employee working from home could provide an opening for cybercriminals to obtain and misuse your business’s confidential information. It’s vital to anticipate the possibility of a cyberattack and take the necessary precautions to safeguard your company.
Introducing new tech, like IoT devices, can increase the number of access points that need to be taken into account when assessing a company’s security. However, these devices can pose significant security risks, so it’s crucial to take extra precautions to protect the business. Engaging a professional provider like Works to develop bespoke software and cloud applications can help address these risks, although it may not be sufficient to guarantee complete protection.
In view of recent developments, reviewing and revising your cybersecurity policies and procedures is highly recommended. Although it may require some effort, it’s a valuable investment in protecting your business from the potential financial and reputational harm associated with a cyberattack. Keeping your three-ring binder up to date can help ensure that you have the latest protection.
Establish a Security Plan
Establishing a team to supervise the cybersecurity overhaul is the initial step. Members of this team should be prepared to:
- Evaluate the organization’s level of readiness to tackle cybersecurity threats.
- Review the existing plans and make any required adjustments.
- Ensure that all employees of the company have undergone cybersecurity training.
- Develop safeguards for your work-from-home (WFH) staff and implement them.
- Act as the initial line of defence in case of a cyber attack.
Choosing potential team members from the IT department is a prudent first step but also evaluate personnel from other departments, like Human Resources. It’s recommended to select individuals who have already demonstrated leadership traits (regardless of their official job title) as their subordinates are likely to be more open to following their direction. For best outcomes, create a direct reporting line between the CEO and the team leader.
The cybersecurity team must formulate a backup plan to ensure uninterrupted communication in the event of any essential service unavailability, such as the company’s email or project management software. This plan must involve all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and suppliers.
Revise Safety Protocols
It’s not feasible to generalize about the required and practical security measures for every business. The optimal approach is to pinpoint vulnerable areas and take measures to enhance them. Below are some recommendations.
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication.
Password authentication alone is not sufficient anymore to secure enterprise accounts. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring the user to verify their identity via an added step like receiving a code through a text message.Program Updates.
Cybersecurity 101 highlights the significance of regularly updating and patching software. In case the IT department doesn’t auto-update programs, a schedule must be set up for when the updates will occur. Data that is especially sensitive should be given top priority in terms of associated expenses.Validate the DDoS Protection System.
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks are executed by utilising networks of compromised computers, also known as botnets. To prevent such attacks, Microsoft recommends that companies maintain sturdy DDoS defences that are continually active, automated for network-layer mitigation, and capable of providing near real-time alerting and monitoring.Create Dependable Systems to Secure Data.
It’s crucial to have both local and remote backups of your data since data breaches can happen despite having robust security measures in place. This permits you to continue to access your data in the event of a breach.Fortify Your Facility’s Defences.
To bolster security, it’s advised to implement a policy to ensure that employees present their ID cards every time they enter or exit the building. Moreover, surveillance cameras should be used to monitor entrances and vital workstations. Lastly, management should encourage all personnel to report any dubious behaviour or activity.
Integrate Strategies for Remote Work
Enforcing cybersecurity standards for remote employees might appear daunting, but there are various measures that can be implemented to safeguard your company’s confidential data.
Ensure Secure Wi-Fi.
It’s crucial to guarantee that all employee devices are updated and protected with strong passwords. Employee encouragement to work in public places that have untrustworthy Wi-Fi networks should be avoided.Safeguard Your Device Hardware.
Some employees may opt to work in a shared office, which is acceptable with a secure network. However, those working in such settings must be extra cautious in ensuring their devices are locked securely when left unattended.Utilize Virtual Private Networks.
Equipping remote-working personnel with the most recent VPN gear ensures information is securely transmitted and received as if they were physically connected to the internal network.Transmit Secure Messages by Employing Encryption.
Business Insider suggests that companies actively promote the use of encrypted, enterprise-specific platforms such as Wickr for secure communication, rather than messaging services like WhatsApp, which may have security weaknesses.Segregate Your Home and Work Computers.
It’s suggested that employees maintain the same level of separation between their personal and work computers at home as they do in the office.Install Virus Protection Software.
It’s crucial to have reliable anti-virus software installed on all business computers.
The video below discusses some of these precautions, as well as others:
Arrange Safety Workshops
It’s crucial to have a comprehensive security strategy in place and to provide regular training for all staff members to ensure they understand the significance of network security, regardless of their position. Making network security a part of the organizational culture, with every employee vigilant in maintaining it, is vital. To prepare for potential breaches, employees should participate in drills and exercises to ensure swift and effective responses.
Lead the Way, Please
Organizational leaders must emphasize to employees the significance of cybersecurity. Managers should lead by example by exhibiting their dedication to the matter and remaining up-to-date on the most recent developments. This, combined with regular communication with the security team, will ensure the organization remains secure during the pandemic and beyond.
