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When you’re working at the office, you might have locks on unauthorized areas, security cameras surrounding the workplace, and anti-virus systems on every computer. But, what are you doing to maintain that same level of security when you’re working remotely?

Some companies might forget to take the severity of security requirements while working from home. However, it is just as essential to ensure that you protect your home office from potential cyberattacks. Cybersecurity is critical with remote work for various reasons.

Documents with Sensitive Data Might Get Exposed

When individuals are working from home, they may have documents that contain private information scattered around their house. But, if those fall into the wrong hands, hackers may use sensitive information to log in to the company’s network and perform a cyberattack. Hiring a professional shredding company in Toronto to discard documents you no longer need is the first step to maintaining security. 

Cyberattacks occur online through Wi-Fi or other networks. However, if documents of any login details or identifying information fall into the wrong hands, it can become a pathway for a hacker.

BYOD Can be a Threat

If you bring your own device (BYOD) for work, problems can arise. Computers at any workplace usually contain multi-step authentication processes and anti-viruses to protect data breaches. You might not have the same security level on your personal device. 

The best way to prevent a cybersecurity threat is to employ electronic data destruction for businesses that eliminate sensitive information from all sources. When you feel any security threat, you can physically destroy that hardware to prevent cyberattacks. Your company can easily take this step if you provide work devices for remote workers. 

In some cases, however, it may not be possible to provide devices for everyone. During those times, the remote worker must install multiple barriers to protect their computers. 

Insufficient Training Can Cause Data Breach

Sometimes, remote workers, especially new hires, might not be adequately trained. The lack of training can be problematic since they could fall for phishing or other scams. Phishing scams occur through emails. You may receive an email that asks for private information or sends attachments, and clicking on those links can enable hackers to retrieve your device’s data.

Similarly, other cybersecurity threats such as malware, trojans, and ransomware, where attackers enter the host system, can be dangerous for your company. 

It is vital to have mandatory training sessions online to avoid cyberattacks from occurring. You can provide material for your staff members to read, along with tips to avoid data breaches to keep them up to date about how to handle a cyberattack.

Weak Passwords Pose Risks

If a remote worker does not take the authentication process seriously, they might be using weak passwords for their network or device. A weak password is a significant risk, and an outdated password protection strategy can be harmful to the employee and the company.

To ensure maximum security, all workers should install a monitoring app to scan vulnerabilities in home networks, outdated software, and weak passwords. It is also helpful to frequently change passwords on Wi-Fi networks, devices, emails, or other online logins. 

Working from home can be relaxing, but any cybersecurity attack can take that away and cause immense stress. So, it is best to be prepared beforehand to prevent any damages.