The Do’s and Don’ts of Remote IT: How to Keep Your Systems Secure

Cybersecurity is essential for all businesses and industries. No matter what your business does, you probably store customer and employee information, income reports, and other sensitive files. Hackers and cybercriminals know this and are constantly on the lookout for any vulnerabilities in order to steal your data.

Since COVID-19 pushed businesses into working remotely, cybercrime has skyrocketed because hackers know that remote businesses have a harder time monitoring how their data is shared. Here are a few do’s and don’ts of remote IT that should help you to keep all of your systems secure!

Do’s

Set Up a VPN

The first step that any business needs to take when employees work from home is to set up a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN extends your private network across a public one, enabling your staff to use and send data across networks as if their devices were directly connected.

VPNs are essential if you need employees to work remotely because they also encrypt your data while it’s on the move for extra protection against hackers. 

Use Secure Cloud Computing Solutions

Another tool to consider is a secure cloud computing solution. Secure cloud solutions allow you to store all your business data in a protected infrastructure that’s accessible to employees no matter where they are working.

This is a great solution for in-office work, as it removes the need for bulky servers, cables, air conditioning, and power suppliers to manage server rooms. 

Cloud solutions also make it possible for your remote staff to safely access the data they need wherever they are. Employees won’t need to store any business data on their personal devices (which could pose a security threat), and can securely access their workloads through the cloud. 

Teach Your Employees How to Avoid Phishing Emails

Cyber criminals know that human error is the easiest way into your sensitive data, so make sure your employees are well trained when it comes to cyber security. One common tactic used to dupe employees is phishing scams.

These are fraudulent emails that aim to obtain sensitive information by fooling the recipient into sharing sensitive data. Train your staff to recognize phishing and other common scams in order to avoid a costly breach. 

Enable MFA for All Tools and Devices

MFA stands for “multi-factor authentication” and should be present on all company devices and  systems that employees use. This will ensure that only your employees can access your business data, and that the data remains secure.

Develop BYOD and WFH Policies

Make sure there are clear guidelines on what devices employees can and can’t use while they’re working from home. Also include guidelines on where and how employees should use these devices to maximize productivity and security. 

Don’ts

Allow Employees to Send Files Through Email

Employees should not send any files through email, because hackers can easily intercept the data. As described above, cloud solutions offer more security when transferring and storing files.

Neglect to Update Your Cyber Security

Remember that in order to protect your business data you need to regularly update cyber security. Many Managed Service Providers offer security assessments, data backups, cybersecurity for businesses, and 24/7 system monitoring in order to protect your business from cyber attacks. 

Forget to Encrypt Your Files

However you choose to access your files, ensure that they are encrypted. This will keep data out of reach of any unauthorized users. If hackers do manage to get to your files, encryption ensures that hackers can’t actually access them.

These few do’s and don’ts are easy and cost-effective ways to protect your business data. Once enabled, they will help your business stay productive and safe.