7 Essential IT Security Tips For Working From Home

Monica Morris • Jul 09, 2020

Working from home has been growing at a steady rate over the years but the novel Coronavirus changed many things very quickly. The change brought about by the pandemic means that many workers who aren’t familiar with remote working are now required to work from home. In this arrangement, employees are primarily focused on getting work done and preventing disruptions. But this can lead to the neglect of potential IT security issues associated with working from home.

In this article, we discuss some security tips for working from home.

Keep Your Software Updated and Patched

No software or system is fully secured and attackers are constantly looking for vulnerabilities to exploit so as to hijack, impersonate, and steal sensitive business data. 

If you disable update notifications because they are distracting, your system will be open to attacks as you may miss out on patches that are released to fix newly-discovered security flaws.

To avoid this, set your software and system to auto-update. Also, keep your other devices including smartphones and tablets updated so they don’t serve as weak points for an attack.

Secure Your Devices

While working from home, you can’t afford to be careless with your work devices. Keep them physically safe so you don’t unintentionally expose confidential information.

If you live with others, always lock or shut down your devices while away from them.

Personal devices that are used for business communications should be secured as well. Your devices should be encrypted so that your data is inaccessible in case of loss or theft.

Watch out for Phishing Emails

Cybercriminals take advantage of disasters and business disruptions to compromise victims’s systems. Because employees working from home expect instructional mails from management, attackers can send fake emails that are similar to legitimate ones in order to hijack a system and steal sensitive information.

Don’t click on suspicious emails and report them to your employer for analysis.

Fake emails may use COVID-19 fears to extract compliance from victims and gain system control. Ensure your email security is up to date and messages are scanned before reading them.

Emails that deal with fund processing and business secrets should be subjected to extra scrutiny. Always confirm instructions through other means to avoid falling for the now common BEC scams.

Use your Company’s Tech Resources

Some organizations have tools designed to help you work from home in a safer manner. This may include communication and security software. 

If the tools are installed on company-supplied devices, then you should stick to using them instead of third-party apps.

You should also follow your company’s policy regarding cyber security. Don’t ignore them because you now work from home.

If your company-approved software isn’t working, don’t use substitutes without getting authorization from your IT department. Unapproved tools might have unknown vulnerabilities that can put your system at risk  

Use VPN

At the heart of working from home is internet connectivity. A VPN connection ensures that your data is secured while in transmission. 

VPN protects by encrypting transmitted data between a source and a destination server even on an unsecured WiFi network. Important business information such as strategy documents, server access, and customers’ data is protected from cybercriminals when a VPN is deployed.

Use Secured Cloud Services

Business files should not only be stored on your local drive but also in the cloud. In case of a device crash or loss, you can recover your data from the cloud storage.

Configure your system for automatic cloud backups of your business data. When possible, use cloud-based apps such as office 365. Your other work devices should also be set up for backup to the cloud.

Use Strong Passwords

When working from home, it is important to re-examine the passwords you use for various online and offline accounts. If attackers get their hands on your password, they could easily impersonate you and carry out business transactions on your behalf.

If you are used to simple passwords, you must upgrade them immediately to a more secure type.

Your password should be at least 12 characters and not include common words. It should include numbers, alphabets and special characters in a random order. You can use password generating software if you are concerned about forgetting your passwords. Remember to also change your passwords regularly.

In addition, the default passwords of your internet devices such as routers should be changed to prevent unauthorized access.

As you adjust to the new reality of working from home, ensure that you take your system security seriously. Don’t just aim to do your job, consider the security of your network and environment. 

By following the tips above, you will be able to securely work from home.  

Please feel free to contact us  today to learn more about our IT services and how they can benefit your business.

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Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats in Fort Wayne: A Guide for Local Businesses

05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.

The Benefits of Cybersecurity Dark Web Monitoring for Business Owners

06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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