As workers happily settle into a remote lifestyle, more and more employers are making the option permanent. Unfortunately, this freedom also comes with online risks to whole companies, as well as their individual members.
If this system is to endure, remote workers must learn to protect themselves from viruses and scams. Here’s a breakdown of what makes them vulnerable and how they can fight off hackers.
Why Are Remote Workers More Vulnerable to Online Threats?
The Covid-19 pandemic caused a major and very sudden shift into remote working before some companies were even ready. We’re not just talking about setting up tools and rules for staff, but also strengthening security systems, since everything would be happening online from then on.
Three Main Risks to Online Security
Firstly, remote workers might access the internet from connections that aren’t safe. Secondly, companies have moved vital data to the Cloud, an easier and now even more attractive target for experienced hackers.
On top of that, there’s the expense of maintaining high security standards. It’s the reason why some employers allow workers to use their own internet connection and devices, as long as it’s safe and they’re careful with their activities.
But all it takes to let a virus in is one worker with poor cybersecurity or judgment. Then the company is at risk, along with everyone it’s linked to. Considering the damage of a cyberattack is also in the disruption and loss of trust it causes, an event like this can be disastrous.
Ransomware Is a Key Threat to Remote Workers
While hardly the only threat around, the popularity of ransomware keeps growing. Statista reports that 2020 saw 304 million worldwide attacks, a 62 percent jump from 2019’s figures. This shows a rekindled interest in the scamming method.
The greater number of remote workers today also gives hackers more opportunities to break into companies and hit the motherload. Ransomware can do this by taking files or a whole computer hostage and demanding payment in exchange for their release.
Learn about ransomware and their countermeasures to stay safe, whether as a remote or in-house worker. In fact, the more you know about all kinds of malware and how they get into computers, the better you’ll be able to defend yourself.
How to Combat Viruses and Scams as a Remote Worker
The digital world may have different types of malware to deal with, but there are common measures you can take to stop yourself or your company from falling prey to them.
Remote workers who don’t have direct contact with colleagues or helpful IT departments should pay extra attention.
1. Use Company Approved Devices and Policies
The first step every employer should take is to give their remote workers preset devices and strict rules for them to follow. Remote workers during and after the pandemic would feel safer and less likely to deviate from safety regulations.
Connect a few laptops and tablets to the company’s cloud network, for example, and equip them with professional antivirus and team management software. This way, you’ll all know that at least some cybersecurity standards are being met.
2. Use Strong, Modern Antivirus Tools
What you can do as a remote worker is a matter of investment and common sense. For starters, if you don’t have company-approved tools, make sure you only use secure internet connections, as well as devices with the most current and reliable antivirus software.
You can find high-end products for computers, smartphones, and even Internet of Things hardware. The price can be steep, but it’s worth it to keep a lot of people safe from online threats. Your employer might even be happy to cover the expense, but do ask first before splashing out on the most expensive one!
3. Back Up Your Data
Just in case something goes wrong, save your data in a separate location. It gives you peace of mind when dealing with ransomware or your system shutting down because of a virus.
Hackers can still be a problem, but you won’t need to worry about losing important files or information.
4. Use Secure Passwords
Your passwords should be strong and unique anyway, but, after moving your work to your home office and devices, it’s a good idea to reset and upgrade all your important codes. It’s better to be safe than sorry, considering the hacking methods used today, from brute force attacks to keyloggers.
5. Protect Your Details
The next tip to remember: never give away personal details, including passwords. Phishing scams can come through emails, social media, and even callers pretending to work for a company you’re associated with.
If your employer hasn’t set up policies for exchanging data with co-workers or clients, take the initiative and be on alert for any suspicious behavior.
Don’t be afraid to trust your gut as it can often save the day.
6. Be Careful With Links, Downloads, and Websites
Your antivirus system should spot threats, but you need to be vigilant too. Don’t open emails from strangers. Don’t click on links or download files just because someone asked you nicely.
Make sure the sender is safe to interact with before using anything that could hide malware.
This includes websites. They can spread viruses just as easily, if not more so with the increase in online traffic. Your best defense is to watch for dangerous website alerts, while taking care not to click on pop ups or suspicious content.
7. Adjust Your Settings for Greater Transparency
Your PC and mobile devices can help you work out whether a file or email is suspicious or not. For one, make sure you get details and reports from your cybersecurity about traffic going in and out of your network.
At the same time, fine-tune your basic settings. The File Explorer Options on Windows, for example, can tell your computer to show you file extensions and hidden items. You can see exactly what something is before opening it.
Also, permanently blocking your port 445 can prevent malware that enters your network from spreading to other devices. Get to know many more tricks for thwarting ransomware and other cyberattacks.
Secure All Your Work and Personal Devices
You can do some jobs from anywhere, but you need to take precautions for the wellbeing of a great many people besides you. After all, understanding why a remote worker is more susceptible to attacks and how to prevent them is an employee’s responsibility as much as their employer’s.
You don’t want to be the weak link that scammers try to take advantage of. Think about what technology exists in your environment, from phones to smart printers and TVs. Then do what you can to put up reliable defenses against intruders.
