Here are five common remote working security risks that you should be aware of
While remote working is a convenient and common practice around the world, it exposes organizations to a wide range of cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities. Persistent hackers are always on the lookout for loopholes and can exploit even the networks with the best security policies. Here are 5 common security risks associated with remote working.
Cyberattacks
- Spinning up new infrastructure gives rise to new security risks. Organizations should be on the lookout for brute force and server-side attacks, as well as DDoS attacks. Attacks on this type of infrastructure can have a huge impact on companies, and the success of their operations.
DDoS protection is essential to prevent cybersecurity threats from harming your company’s infrastructure. A DDoS attack can destroy businesses and prevent employees from accessing services over the internet.
Poor Data Security
- With remote work, it’s even more difficult to maintain data security because workers don’t have cybersecurity teams that watch over their home network. In addition, companies can’t extend monitoring software to all the devices and networks that are used by remote workers. Thus, cybersecurity is neglected and the likelihood of cyber attacks is increased.
Moreover, workers may download sensitive information on their local unencrypted devices. They may share the company’s sensitive data over unsecured channels without encrypting the files. These behaviors can sabotage an organization and have far-reaching impacts.
Unsecured Home Devices
- To keep your company safe, it’s essential to use a VPN on any device that is accessing your corporate network. The average person, however, doesn’t think about encrypting their phone or using a VPN on their home internet, even if they’re just checking their work voicemails.
Personal computers are less secure than corporate ones. Security features such as email filtering, firewalls, or encryption software are not available on personal devices. In addition, IT security teams do not supervise home networks. Without this extra layer of protection, hackers might use these personal devices as entry points to gain access to business networks.
Unsecure Home WiFi Networks
- Companies that allow remote workers to access business networks through personal devices are at risk of security breaches. Home wifi and routers are not safe. Just like any other hardware, routers need to be updated. Routers that are not kept the up-to-date result in security gaps.
The exploitation of these security gaps by hackers results in corporate data breaches. Most people rarely change the default password on their routers as well as their wifi network’s password. Thus, providing an opportunity for hackers to take control of these devices. Changing the default WiFi network’s password regularly can prevent these attacks.
Email Phishing
Remote workers can sometimes become the biggest threat to a business organization. One careless click by the employee can give hackers access to your organization’s sensitive information. One such example is email phishing. It is the most common cyber security risk associated with remote working.
In phishing attacks, hackers disguise themselves as legitimate sources and send emails to their targeted victims. Hackers deceive their victims into taking an action such as providing login information, passwords, PINs, etc. This information is then used by hackers to break into accounts, perform identity frauds, or steal more confidential information.
If you are interested in protecting your business or company from many cyber security threats, you can call Micro Strategies at their toll-free number, 888-467-6588. Our remote work insights can support your hybrid workforce. Our security teams monitor critical business performance from remote locations to ensure your business continues at all times. We are a company that specializes in business, IT, and security solutions. We are located in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New England, and New York.
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