Cybersecurity & Remote Work

Introduction

Remote work has rapidly been normalised across organisations across the globe. This shift has made organisations more footloose and more global than ever before. While remote work brings numerous advantages, such as increased flexibility, job satisfaction, and productivity, it also poses significant cybersecurity challenges. Compared to the traditional modus of corporate work, wherein access to the network is only within a specific time frame at a specific location, remote work puts the organisation in a position where employees connect to corporate networks from various locations, causing the potential risks and vulnerabilities for cyber threats multiply. It is crucial for individuals and organisations alike to prioritise cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data and maintain a secure remote work environment. Outlined below will be a guideline of best practices and principles that can greatly mitigate the inherent risk that is introduce to an organisation by remote work.

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A Work Device is Essential

The first step in creating a secure remote work environment is ensuring that remote working staff are provided with distinct devices specifically for work-related purposes. In addition, staff should be warned to limit the amount of work-related content they engage with outside of this work device. This is because personal devices inherently are less secure than a work device should be, and could even already have harmful files or malware installed on them without the knowledge of the remote worker. If they were to connect to the corporate network with a compromised devices, the effect could spread across the network, dealing damage to the organisation as a whole. With the provision of a work device and a distinct work account, the organisation can ensure that a clean device is being provided and the relevant software is installed from reputable sources, in addition to any role-based and privilege-based restrictions being enforced.

In the event the a work device cannot be provided, the following guidelines will combat the risk of a personal device joining the corporate network.

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Implement a Strong Password Policy

Passwords are usually the first line of defence to any system. Creating strong and unique passwords is an essential aspect of remote work cybersecurity, so by implementing a password policy mandating the use of strong passwords, the risk to an organisation greatly diminishes. A strong password is usually characterised as being 10+ characters long, using a combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters. Advice staff against using common passwords or reusing them across different accounts; if an attackers gets one, then they have them all. Configuring the policy to enforce that staff change their passwords periodically is also a good way to ensure the longevity of a system's security.

Instead, utilise a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible, as it adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a fingerprint or a one-time password sent to your mobile device.

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Go the Extra Mile

A secure business network is now more important than ever. As such, making each user's device and work account as secure as possible goes a long way in achieving this. Ensure that remote work devices are protected with robust security measures. Enable full-disk encryption using BitLocker to safeguard data in case of theft or loss. Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA), which will act as additional barriers to entry when trying to access a device or work account. In exchange for momentary inconvenience, organisational security increases exponentially as they are excellent at defending against unauthorised access. Effective MFA methods include biometrics, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, a one-time password, and push notification, or a physical key.

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Provide Secure Remote Access Solutions

Not all remote workers can guarantee that the Wi-Fi network that the connect to will be secure. Organisations should invest in secure remote access solutions, such as virtual private networks (VPNs) or remote desktop protocols (RDPs). These technologies encrypt data transmission, protecting it from interception or unauthorized access. It is crucial to ensure that remote access solutions are properly configured and regularly updated to address emerging vulnerabilities.

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Conduct Security Awareness Training

Organisations should prioritize ongoing security awareness training for all employees, including remote workers. Training sessions can cover topics such as identifying phishing emails, recognizing social engineering tactics, and understanding the importance of strong passwords. By educating employees about cybersecurity risks and best practices, organisations empower them to become the first line of defence against potential threats.

In addition to being aware of cyber threats, security awareness training should encompass guidelines on how remote workers should deal with their devices and accounts. Remote workers should be made to understand the danger of allowing an unaffiliated third-party to use or borrow their work device, remain logged into their accounts outside of use, or leaving their devices unattended in public.

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Keep Devices Healthy

Organisations must ensure that all systems, including servers, applications, and endpoints, are kept up to date with the latest security patches and updates. Regular vulnerability assessments and patch management procedures should be implemented to identify and address potential weaknesses promptly. Timely patching helps protect against known vulnerabilities that cybercriminals often exploit.