Data breaches can put a company’s entire livelihood at risk.
And according to a report by Shred-it, the biggest cause of this is employee negligence.
In the report, it is stated that human error counts for more than one-third of data breaches. The cause of these data breaches were the result of an employee losing an important device.
Such devices often contained confidential information. This information included sensitive data such as account numbers, passwords and transaction histories. Keeping these devices safe is imperative to avoiding data security threats.
The Risks of Data Security Threats with Remote Workers
Remote working can be tricky to handle for both workers and employers. The main problem stems from attempting to keep track of multiple clients. These clients are often in various time zones and locations around the world.
It may be so that workers have to use different applications to manage different clients. With this can come the difficulty of remembering policies and regulations. Potentially compromising clients’ work can be stressful for those in charge of projects.
Remote work can be a nice perk, but the nature of remote work can present considerable problems. The vulnerabilities in security can be an issue. However, there are methods applicable that can protect you and your organization.
Personal Devices and Multiple Use
Working from home can be done in a myriad of ways.
Remote workers may choose to use cell phones or tablets to fulfil project deadlines. However, spreading work across multiple devices can create security holes. This can endanger both you and your superiors.
Bringing data home and storing it on personal devices may violate security regulations or policies. This can also increase the likelihood of data being misplaced or stolen.
Cross-Contamination
Using personal devices for work can leave businesses susceptible to online threats. Programs such as malware or viruses can be spread across computers.
This, in turn, can cause damage to the contents. These contents often contain sensitive information that clients rely on. To mitigate this, separate accounts for work and personal use is advised. Computer backups are also a good idea.
Infected Networks
Enterprises often employ state-of-the-art security to make sure sensitive data is protected. Conversely, computer networks in people’s homes do not have this level of defense. One computer on the network could infect multiple others.
Businesses will need to screen all projects received from remote workers. This is to ensure important files are not compromised.
How Can Remote Workers Ensure Data Security
Remote workers should familiarize themselves with the nuances of security. One of the premier ways to do this is security awareness training.
This can equip remote employees with the tools and mindset to avoid issues such as cyber attacks. They can also learn how to secure their computers effectively before beginning work on projects.
Online Security is a Must
Cybercrime poses a threat to businesses daily. Professional networks can make use of multi-factor authentication to keep attackers out.
One powerful authentication technology is Acceptto.
Acceptto cutting-edge technology provides continuous protection of your online identity. Take a look at Acceptto and see how you can provide secure authentication for your needs and prevent data security threats.
Alternatively, take a look at our blog for more information.
