As the remote workforce continues to grow, the risk of data security incidents has as well. Remote workers are particularly at risk of cybersecurity attacks, especially when working outside of the company’s private internet connection. Remote workers that use untrustworthy Wi-Fi in coffee shops, restaurants and even coworking spaces put themselves and their company’s network at risk.
It is clear that your data can be easily compromised in places that might appear safe, so here are a few ways to help protect your information when accessing your company’s resources remotely.
Virtual Private Networks (VPN) use “virtual” connections through the internet from the company’s private network. It protects browsing activity and any information that may be shared.
Another way to safely access a company’s network remotely is through two-factor authentication, a process where the worker provides two different authentication factors to fully verify themselves.
Data Loss Protection is a software that allows a network administrator to control what type of data workers can transfer and to whom, preventing workers from sharing sensitive information outside of the company’s network.
Additionally, advance detection mechanisms use machine learning and AI to help detect attacks that use malware or have persistent remote access. It can track patterns of behavior, then alert administrators when necessary.
Employers can also take their own steps in protecting their data by installing company-issued firewalls, as well as regularly communicate with the company’s IT department.