2020 has brought a new expectation for work which many are getting used to. Due to Covid-19 40% of the workforce is working remotely. While remote work has always existed it was never required in the way that it is now.
Employees have had to completely change how they are communicating and working together. The main concern for businesses is the security of important information. Here are tips on how to make your small business and overall organisation secure while working remotely.
Improve business technology
Updated laptops: It is important to make sure that all employees have access to updated laptops. If they do not have their laptop updated with the correct software they will not be able to work. Also by having outdated laptops you will be slowed down when working.
Use of VoIP: VoIP unlike other calling systems will keep all your information safe and organised. VoIP has features that will help keep your sensitive information safe. With VoIP, you can back up and secure important documents. It also has cloud storage where you can share files and documents with your colleagues for easy and safe access. It is important to have your small business information secure when working remotely.
Using secured Wifi: The most common way your sensitive information is breached is by an unsecured Wi-Fi network. Your remote workers need to be educated about how to make sure your business is secure by only using internet connections that are secure and private.
VPNs: The easiest solution is to require employees to use a virtual private network (VPN). Using VPNs before signing on to public Wi-Fi networks will encrypt the internet traffic of the remote worker and monitor for any signs of a security breach.
Anti-Malware Software: Anti-malware is software that is made to prevent, detect, and remove malicious software from individual computers. It is important to require your employees to have anti-malware on the devices they are using for work. By having anti-malware your business’s sensitive information is safe from potential threats.
Employee technology policy
Keeping business and personal devices separate: Have the policy to keep business and personal devices separate. This helps to keep sensitive information in only one location where only the employee is using it keeps the information safe. It also helps to keep employees focused on work.
Secure networks: Require your employees to only use secure networks when doing work. This way it keeps your information safe because you have added security.
Report phishing attempts: Phishing is the fraudulent attempt to get sensitive information or data, by disguising oneself as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. It is important to have a policy requiring employees to report as soon as it happens because you could have noticed it is fake but they could try to trick another person in your business and take important data from your business.
Secure business equipment
Remote work presents challenges because employees tend to let their guard down, especially when it comes to securing important information. This is why they should have secure business equipment. Equipment such as a good laptop and software to secure your important information.
To see how VoIP can help your business be more secure with your virtual workforce check out our packages or call our team on 0203 697 4166.
