ESSENTIAL SECURITY PRACTICES FOR REMOTE WORKERS

To ensure data integrity and safeguarding against cybersecurity threats, remote workers should adhere to essential security practices in any working location.

Implement these 12 practices to enhance security measures:

• Secured Connection - Ensure your WIFI connection is secure by using WAPA3 encryption for your home network, use a VPN to encrypt internet traffic and ensure secure communication when connecting to the network.
• Strong Passwords - Use strong and unique passwords for all accounts. Make sure to use trusted password managers to generate and store strong passwords securely. 
• Updates and Applications - Protect devices by ensuring the latest Operating System and application updates are applied.
• Protective Security Software - Use Anti-virus and Anti-malware.
• Device Safety - Lock devices when not in use, even when working from home. 
• Backup Data - make sure you backup your data regularly to an external drive or cloud service in case of ransomware attacks or hardware failure.
• Use Encryption - make sure storage devices are encrypted to prevent data theft in case they are lost or stolen.
• Use Safe Browsing Practices - Avoid entering personal information to websites that lack HTTPS, websites that use HTTPS (the lock symbol in the address bar) are secure as they encrypt the communication between your browser and the website you are accessing. 
• Practise Safe File Sharing - Use secure file-sharing services like OneDrive, Google Drive or company approved platforms which offer encryption. Limit access to shared files and folders, providing permissions to only those users which need access. 
• Keep Updated with Policy - Regularly review security policies and ensure staff stay up to date with your company's remote working policies and security guidelines.
• Stay Aware - Engage in cybersecurity awareness training.
• Accountability - Take personal responsibility and be vigilant. 

Author

Richard Huggins

Richard joined us in 1997 as an apprentice IT engineer conducting on-site installations of CAD workstations and Microsoft and Novell network environments. After a brief spell away to travel the world, he returned to work on our helpdesk supporting our CAD customers. In 2007, Richard was promoted to Support Services Manager and worked in this role until 2016 when he decided to acquire new skills and widen his IT industry knowledge and left to work as an Operational Manager for one of the UK’s Top 20 leading Information Security companies. In 2019 Richard once again returned to Symetri as Head of Support and Customer Success to further improve the Symetri customer support experience and is now responsible for the IT Solutions division.