This is how we work now, with the shift in remote work bringing flexibility and convenience. However, it has also created new challenges, especially in the field of cybersecurity. Remote teams are more vulnerable to cyberattacks, data breaches, and other types of security threats, due to the lack of regular office network protections. But the good news is that ensuring data security while working from home doesn’t need to be a hassle. With proper practices and tools implemented, you can keep your team’s sensitive information secure. So, without further ado, let’s break down some of the best, most effective cybersecurity tips for remote teams!

Why Cybersecurity is Important for Remote Teams

There are plenty of perks to working from home – no commute, more flexible working hours, and a better work-life balance. But it also introduces new vulnerabilities. Once workers are remote, they may connect to the internet via personal devices, unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and even public networks in coffee shops or co-working spaces. This makes the path very easy for cybercriminals to carry out several attacks like hacking, phishing, data theft, etc.

When it comes to protecting sensitive business data, this is even more important for remote teams. Be it customer data, financial information, or proprietary business plans, you need a robust cybersecurity scheme to safeguard you against possible threats. Here’s how to make it safe!

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

A strong password is the first line of defense in a cybersecurity plan. Weak or repeated passwords enable hackers to break into your accounts more quickly. Remind your team to keep strong, one-of-a-kind passwords for all accounts they access, from email to project management tools to your business’ CRM system.

Here are some password tips:

• Mix upper and lower case letters with numbers and special characters.
• Do not use personal information such as birthdays or names.
• Never reuse passwords between different accounts.
• Advocate the use of a password manager for saving and generating strong passwords.

By ensuring they have strong passwords, you contribute to the prevention of unauthorized users accessing their data via hackers.

Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

With Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), even if someone has your password, no one will be able to access your accounts without the second layer of security. This means that users will need to also authenticate their identity with something they have (like a phone or an authentication app) on top of your password.

2FA usually functions via text message or an authentication app (such as Google Authenticator or Authy). This added step makes it far more difficult for hackers to access your accounts, even if they successfully steal your password.

Make sure your team enables 2FA on every account they use, if provided. This is a small leap that can have a big impact on your general security.

Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

The Wi-Fi network represents one of the most significant security risks when telecommuting. Your team may be connected to personal or any other public Wi-Fi networks, with their internet traffic being intercepted by cybercriminals.

To ensure your home Wi-Fi network is secure:

• Update Default Router Password: Many broadband routers present default passwords which are pretty easy for hackers to crack. Make this a complex, unique password.
• Turn on WPA3 encryption: This is the newest, most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard. Check if your router supports it and enable it in your settings.

This question links with the following question Why use a VPN?
Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it far more difficult for anyone to intercept your data when you’re connected to a public or shared network.

When your team members are accessing their company’s network via their home internet connection, always use a VPN to keep their connection secured and their data protected.

Update Software and Security Tools Regularly

One of the simplest methods that hackers utilize to penetrate your devices is outdated software. A lot of those software updates include important security patches that address vulnerabilities; keeping everything up to date is crucial for protecting your remote team’s data.

Ensure that your team keeps the following:

• Operating systems (Windows, mac OS, Linux, etc.)
• Antivirus and anti-malware software: These tools scan your computer to detect and block malicious threats before they can wreak havoc on your system.
• Web browsers: Having the latest web browser version ensures that you have the latest in security features and phishing attack mitigations.

You should also make sure that all apps and tools your team uses to collaborate (such as Slack, Zoom, and Google Drive) are up to date.

Get your remote team to enable auto-update software on their devices where possible. This will keep them constantly safe from the latest threats.

Train Your Team About Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are among the most common methods that cybercriminals use to convince people to disclose sensitive data. These scams may appear as false messages (in the form of email and text) or fake websites pretending to originate from trusted sources in an attempt to acquire your personal data.

The importance of training your staff to identify phishing attacks and to always treat unsolicited emails/messages with care. Here’s what they can look out for:

• Links you don’t trust: Hover your cursor over any link before you click it to confirm that it takes you to the proper site.
• Suspicious attachments: Do not open attachments from senders you do not know.
• Generic salutations: Phishing scams commonly include generalized terms such as “Dear Customer” instead of a personalized greeting with the name of their target.
• A sense of urgency: Phishing scammers use urgency to pressure people into taking action quickly. Words like “Your account has been compromised” or “Immediate action required” are common major red flags.

Ensure that your remote team knows how to report if they receive any suspicious messages, and don’t fall for phishing scams.

Back Up Your Data Regularly

Implementing a robust data backup solution is one of the most effective methods for mitigating the damage after a cyberattack (for example, a ransomware attack). Make sure to regularly back up vital business data to a secure location, be it an external hard drive or a cloud-based backup service.

Backups also​ mean that even if an attack does compromise your systems, you will not lose everything that is important to you. For remote teams, this means that should something go wrong, they can keep working with as little disruption as possible.

Collaborate Using Security-Ready Collaboration Tools

Your team needs to communicate and share files using several collaboration tools when working remotely. Focus on security and privacy with the tools that you choose. Seek out platforms that include encryption, secure file sharing, and authentication capabilities.

Popular and secure collaboration tools include:

• Slack: One of the options with end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication.
• Zoom: Offers password protection and encryption for meetings.
• Google Workspace: It has some built-in security features, including advanced phishing protection and secure file sharing.

Ensure your team employs secure tools and train everyone on how to use them safely.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is the need of the hour, especially for remote teams. Armed with the right tools, practices, and education, you can keep your team’s sensitive data from falling victim to opportunistic cybercriminals while working from home. Use strong passwords, turn on two-factor authentication, secure your Wi-Fi network, keep everything up to date, and be on the lookout for phishing scams.

Following these simple tips helps you build a secure remote work environment that secures your business, your employees, and your data.