Cyberattacks have been on the rise in recent years, with global cybercrime costs projected to reach $10.5 trillion by 2025. Remote workers are especially vulnerable due to expanded attack surfaces and less secure networks. As the threat of cyberattacks continues to grow, it’s essential to review best practices to stay protected while working remotely.
Be Cautious When Using Public Wi-Fi
Working in public spaces such as coffee shops or libraries is common with remote work, but public networks expose your private information. Data traffic on these networks can be intercepted and analyzed. These interceptions can reveal sensitive information including your work data or banking details. Always be mindful of what you’re accessing on a public network, and when dealing with sensitive information, it’s best to stick to a secure home network.
Boost Your Security with a VPN
When you do use a public network, consider using a VPN (virtual private network) to enhance your security. A VPN provides an extra layer of encryption by routing your connection through a private internet server. By redirecting your connection, a VPN essentially shields your online activity from prying eyes.
Install Antivirus Software
Home networks are often targets for malware attacks. Installing comprehensive antivirus software on your computer can provide an essential layer of protection, actively detecting and preventing viruses from infiltrating your system. If you’re frequently working from a home network, antivirus software is crucial in mitigating potential threats.
Keep Your Devices Updated
Device updates often include critical patches to fix system vulnerabilities and safeguard against cybercriminals. Delaying updates can leave your device exposed to malware and attacks. Enable automatic updates to ensure your device stays protected without interrupting your workflow. Many devices allow updates to occur “off-hours,” so your work isn’t disrupted.
Use Unique Passwords
It may seem obvious, but reusing the same password across multiple accounts is a hard habit to break—and a risky one. According to Security Magazine, 78% of people use the same password for multiple accounts, which makes users especially vulnerable to data breaches. If one account is compromised, hackers can access other sensitive accounts using the same credentials. Here are some password security tips:
- Create a unique password for each account
- Use at least 12 characters
- Include a mix of letters, numbers, and special symbols
To manage multiple passwords, consider using a trusted password manager. It will securely store your passwords and help you keep track of them across different accounts.
By implementing these practices while working remotely, you can strengthen your device’s defenses. These tips provide a good start to prevent cyberattacks and protect your information from being leaked. For more information on how you can strengthen your cybersecurity, visit the CISA’s website.
