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6 Security Tips Every Remote Business Needs to Implement, Now

Our world is changing for many reasons, and technology has to enable at lightning speed the ability to sustain a remote workforce. However, due to COVID-19, this transition has to occur at a much faster rate than initially anticipated. As companies try to adjust to quarantines and stay-at-home orders, they need to look carefully at how they are performing their business operations and how can their employees work efficiently. Pajamas are optional, but the ways to work online are not. Awareness is the first line of attack, but where do you start, and what is most important? How do you maintain Business continuity in the context of a crisis?

Here are some things you need to be aware of in this continuing shift in business, which will help your team focus on productivity, which is vital now more than ever.

“Teamwork makes the dream work” is an old saying. Shred-It’s 2018 State of the Industry Report, 85% of companies believe remote workers’ unsecured internet use increases a company’s probabilities for a data security breach. Both executives and employees need to work as a team to protect their company’s information, which is the lifeline of their business. Being prepared and having VPN software to help work remotely and eliminate activity disruption in day-to-day reality can make a difference in the future of any company, large or small.

By creating practices and procedures that strengthen data security business will lead the way to productivity.

Here are ways to begin that process:

1) Knowledge

Many people, in general, are not aware that data security is something they should be concerned about. Company-wide education security sensitivity training is the first step.

2) Ensure all Internet Connections Are Secure

Using an unsecured Wi-Fi network is common. Many don’t realize that their home or favorite coffee shop is a way to expose your company to a data security breach. A simple solution is to require employees to use a virtual private network (VPN). Using VPNs will encrypt the internet traffic and monitor for any signs of infection. This is particularly important during COVID-19, as many hackers, phishers, and RATS are looking for ways to infiltrate computers and data. Your riskiest data is often hiding in plain sight.

3) Use a Password Manager

Password safety is an easy way to protect your organization’s data. Keep the passwords secure and varied. A password manager can randomly generate passwords and store them safely. This eliminates the daily struggle of remembering and generating passwords for various programs. Then, the company data can remain secure and un-compromised.

4) Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) for data security management confirms a user’s identity by first requiring a username and password, as well as another piece of information, whether it is an answer to a “secret question” or perhaps a PIN that was sent to their cell phone. More complex verification includes biometrics like retina, voice, and/or fingerprint recognition.

5) Use Encryption Software

If a device is stolen or lost, encryption software can protect company data by prohibiting access from any unauthorized users of those devices.

6) Firewalls, Antivirus Software and Anti-Malware

Require those who do remote work to have up-to-date firewalls, antivirus software, and anti-malware on all their devices, including their cell phones, tablets, and laptops. Your team might want to contemplate the ability to wipe devices in case they are lost or stolen remotely. Do not hesitate to create a demilitarized zone or DMZ inside your network where the VPN will terminate. This will allow your IT administration to limit the attack vectors by filtering what can or cannot be accessed.

We are entering a new world and you are responsible for so much beyond the regular elements of business, securing your data and a secure VPN is the equivalent of “washing your hands” of computers and cyber data. If this seems complicated and difficult, don’t despair. RadioIP can set your team up to work from home, with low cost & little equipment needed with Safety grade VPN solutions.