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Security steps for safer remote working

Working remotely or while on the move is becoming increasingly common. The principles and rules of data protection still apply when working remotely, if not, more so.

Keep your data safe when working remotely with these useful tips by Fellowes:

Security steps for safer remote working

Don’t go public

Where possible, remote workers should avoid free Wi-Fi hotspots and public computers. If they absolutely must use a public device or connect to a public network, workers should take extra care when sending information over the internet. It is good practice to never store passwords and always carefully log out of web apps.

Maintain security protection

Schedule security protection to make sure all business devices are protected with preventative software including antivirus, web filtering, firewalls and device encryption.

If team members use their own mobile phones and computers for business activity, ask yourself if this is necessary or prudent.

Encrypt, encrypt, encrypt

It’s as easy for a remote worker to leave a USB stick on the train as it is for them to mislay a glove in a café.

Any device containing sensitive information should be encrypted as policy - that means USBs, mobile phones, tablets and laptops.

Use a VPN

Once fraught with complication, today’s Virtual Private Networks (VPN) are an altogether simpler prospect for the average user. VPNs provide an essential extra layer of security when working remotely and the wisest business owners and managers make using them mandatory.

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and if you or your team are remote working, it’s essential to use one. A VPN is a bit like a private telephone line. It creates an unbreakable tunnel between one location (where an individual has chosen to work remotely) and another (the company network). In addition to making the process far more secure, a VPN also provides convenient access to company servers and applications.

Take your time over passwords

As tempting as it is to make 1234Password your go-to for every password request, it’s not sensible when it comes to data protection. Spend some time devising obscure passwords. They’re your first line of defence against hackers so make them good ones. (Sources: https://minutehack.com/guides/10-security-tips-for-remote-and-mobile-working.

Consider the threat of visual hacking

Visual hacking can be a real threat if you are working in public places or on the go. Shoulder Surfing,’ as it has become known, is a growing form of identity theft whereby private information is viewed or even photographed over the shoulder of anyone using a screen.

Protect your screen from prying eyes by investing in a privacy screen that can be easily attached and removed from laptop screens. Fellowes PrivaScreen Blackout Privacy Filters black out the screen from the side view to protect your privacy, while maintaining a crystal-clear screen straight-on.

Security steps for safer remote working

Be prepared

• Instead of reacting to a data protection breach that catches us by surprise, it is better to be prepared for all eventualities.

• Create a robust remote working policy and business continuity plan that includes what measures workers can take in the event of a data breach.

• Identify the resources needed to protect data when it’s being accessed by remote workers and plan a response, should a breach occur.

• Take the time to educate team members on their responsibilities, what is expected of them and the practical steps they can take to protect company, customer, employee, supplier and any other data that they work with.

 

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Work securely everywhere with Blackout Privacy Filters