Ways Remote Teams Can Safeguard Their Digital Assets

Ashok Manoharan, Founder/CTO FocusLabs.

The numerous benefits of remote work have been well-documented at this point. However, remote work also poses a major risk: the safety of digital tools, information and systems. Cybercriminals are exploiting remote arrangements with phishing, ransomware and other online threats targeting individuals and businesses.

Let's take a look at some practical data protection measures your team can employ to ensure their safety and maintain their remote setup.

What Are The Challenges Of Cybersecurity For Remote Teams?

Working from home inevitably leads to workers using non-work-assigned technology (e.g., using personal smartphones for work purposes or connecting to public Wi-Fi). Even though we are nearly five years removed from the global pandemic that forced companies to move to a primarily remote setup, CISOs still cite remote work as a major hurdle to their cybersecurity efforts. This underscores the fact that all employees need to respect and uphold cybersecurity policies—not just IT staff.

Common Cybersecurity Weaknesses For Remote Workers

Phishing Schemes

Spam emails or messages are used by cybercriminals to target people so they can steal their credentials and other sensitive details. A common example is an email from IT requesting that a password be reset with a link.

Weak Passwords

The use of common passwords or choosing the same password for different accounts puts users at risk.

Unsecured Wi-Fi

Using public networks, as in a café, could give hackers a vector to obtain sensitive information.

Outdated Software

Not applying software updates makes employees' devices open targets for cyber attackers. Since these devices—namely, laptops and phones—have work-related information on them, they can cause major issues not just for the workers but for their companies as well.

What Remote Teams Can Do

1. Deploy Strong, Unique Passwords

Design passwords that have more than eight characters, including numbers, upper and lowercase letters and symbols. You should also use a password manager to create strong passwords. And it goes without saying that you should avoid writing down passwords and sending them in emails or messaging platforms.

2. Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication is a method that combines two different components. It enforces security on transactions that require a secondary verification step, such as a text message code to a mobile device. People who steal passwords cannot access targets without taking this additional step.

3. Do Not Use Public Wi-Fi That Does Not Provide Encryption

Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it comes with its fair share of risks. To ensure that your connection is safe, use a virtual private network (VPN). If you do not have access to a VPN, utilize a mobile hotspot instead.

4. Regularly Update All Devices And Software

Updates always have some security holes that have been previously fixed in the newer version. Automatic updates for operating systems, browsers and applications significantly enhance your protection level.

5. Take Precautions To Avoid Phishing Fraud

Avoid answering emails or messages that claim to be very urgent and come from people you don’t know. It is wise to check with colleagues or IT support on the links before opening or sharing information.

6. Protect Your Devices

Always set up device locks, including passwords and fingerprint recognition, and activate remote wiping features for lost or stolen devices. Work laptops should be encrypted to avoid unauthorized access.

7. Secure Cloud Services

Any helpful service, such as Google Drive or Dropbox, should be handled with security. 2FA should be enabled and used with appropriate sharing settings. Use privately owned links with caution and refrain from sharing this sensitive information.

8. Preserve A Copy Of Data And Back Up Your Systems

In the case of ransomware or a hardware malfunction, backups enable file recovery in the affected devices. Regular backups should be carried out on encrypted drives or via a cloud platform.

9. Conduct Cybersecurity Exercises

Human error is the primary cause behind the majority of all breaches. Periodic training can boost employees’ ability to counter phishing attempts, enhance the strength of their passwords and utilize appropriate cyber hygiene practices.

10. Make Use Of Information Technology Teams

Actively participate with relevant stakeholders within the IT departments in migrating secure systems or training users and developing information security policies for the organization.

Cybersecurity Is A Collective Responsibility

Protecting digital assets is not just an IT department activity; it is a company-wide endeavor. When users set up complex passwords, refrain from clicking on untrusted links and update their software, each little contribution helps ensure the safety of the organization.

The threat of a cyberattack is constant in a remote work setup, but with adequate measures and a level of awareness, the threats can easily be dealt with. Be smart, be safe and, above all, guard what is most important!

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