Whether you are contemplating adopting a remote work environment or you already have one, it is essential to develop a strategy for data security when considering a remote team’s requirements.
As per a recent Cisco report, almost 6% of those who work from home accepted that they transferred documents between their personal computer and work system. This action can not only make your company data vulnerable, but it can also cause much loss of money in data recovery. In what way do you have to secure business data when handling a remote team? Here are some tips on developing and implementing a strong data security strategy for those who work for you from remote locations.
Make A Secure Internet Connection
It is important to maintain a secure company network regardless of whether your staff members are working at the office or from home. Think about making them utilize virtual private networks. Your staff using a VPN will mean that you will no longer have to be concerned regarding remote employees working or accessing company data on their PC through a public connection that is not secure. You also have to think about establishing multi-factor authentication to prevent data violations. You may also restrict remote workers from copying or saving company files to their devices with a remote desktop (RDP) security layer.
Devise A Policy For Remote Work
The policy has to clearly define the things that telecommuters should perform and your expectations from them. A schedule of secured updates, guidelines concerning essential backups, and approved messaging programs all may be part of the policy.
Secure Important IT Resources And Tools
When you plan on providing remote work opportunities or privileges, your entity has to possess the necessary tools and expertise for monitoring and supporting telecommuters. Giving your IT staff power over both remote devices and activities is a fine strategy for data security for remote workers. It is important to consider several different factors, including firewall configurations, password management, account lockouts, and browser privacy.
Protect Remote Employees Devices
Keeping their devices safe from malicious software, unauthorized access, and viruses is another significant security strategy aspect. Motivate your remote team to learn best practices for computer security, like frequently updating their work-related programs and operating systems to name one. They must also install just reliable security programs.
Utilize Cloud-Based Programs
Almost every cloud service provider has established tight measures to keep services and their users safe from likely security threats. Therefore, utilizing their cloud services will free you from some security responsibilities. When selecting a cloud service vendor, be sure to understand the form of protection and service they offer you. When needing assistance in determining which cloud-based services are ideal for your entity, contact a managed IT services provider to know your options.
Implementing a strategy for data security for the workers mentioned above will help to ensure that sensitive business data is protected wherever it is accessed. This move will cause remote workers to know when and where to access that data, thereby encouraging accountability among them.