Remote work comes with added security risks. From using shared networks to simple human error, you could unknowingly be putting your business at risk simply by answering an email on a shared network. Is your business covered? We’re sharing the 4 cyber security tools you should already be using to protect your business. And if you’re not? No worries. We can help you get them in place quickly and securely with our Managed IT services.
1. Secure VPN technology
The first cyber security tool you should invest in is a virtual private network (VPN). Many employees admit to leaving a work device unattended in public while working remotely, or to using public Wi-Fi to send and receive work files. It’s all too tempting to answer that work or customer email on your personal smartphone at the kitchen table or in line at the coffee shop. This may seem harmless, but it means others could be using that shared network to spy on your activities or to gain access to your company’s IT systems.
Just as the name suggests, a virtual private network (VPN), allows your team to access a private, secure network, even if they use their own household or public Wi-Fi. A VPN can mask a users’ location and IP address and encrypts data as it moves back and forth across the internet.
Now, it doesn’t mean your activities cannot be monitored while using a VPN. Website cookies can still track your online “movements”, but a VPN offers another layer of protection that can stop others from accessing your sensitive company data.
2. Multi-factor authentication
To add another layer of protection, the second cyber security tool your business should be using is multi-factor authentication. This will minimize another risk often posed by remote working: unauthorized logins to company systems. When employees work in an office, you control the environment and the level of security, but when your employees work from home, you face potential risks.
Multi-factor authentication can protect your business by requiring users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to access devices and systems. This is usually something only the user knows, such as a key code or PIN, or something only an authorized user would have in their possession, such as a badge or smartphone. You can even go a step further and use things like fingerprint or voice recognition. By implementing this extra step, you can greatly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
3. Access control
Next on the list of cyber security tools you need, is access control. It’s important to control the level of access for each remote worker, since not everyone needs to access every single IT system. Good access control means you know who should access your company data (authorization), and you have the means to ensure the right person is granted access (authentication). In other words, you have gatekeepers, like multi-factor authentication, in place that ensure that the right person accesses the right systems.
Every business needs some form of access control, especially if employees work from home and require access to company resources and networks. By limiting access to only the systems and data a worker needs to do their job, you lessen the risk of info leaks and security breaches.
4. Security training
All the above tools can keep your business safe, however, they don’t account for human error or negligence. To mitigate this risk, the final piece of the cyber security puzzle must involve security training for remote staff. Security training can help employees to comprehend the IT risks involved in working from home. By outlining and documenting your security policy and best practices, you can give remote staff the education they need to keep themselves and the company safe.
We recommend distributing a clearly written security policy to all remote workers. Outline how to spot threats, how to report a problem, and steps employees can take to reduce security risks. Remember, not everyone speaks “IT”, so make sure it is easy to follow and that your team understands their responsibilities. An outsourced IT provider may already have versions of policies that they can help you implement, without needing to start from scratch, or you can check out our guide to developing a security policy.
Are you ready to step up your security with cyber security tools that protect your business?
Our Managed IT services can provide these invaluable tools, minimizing your online risk and leaving you with peace of mind.
Get in touch to learn more. We’re happy to answer any questions and get you on the road to robust online security.