As more employees work from home, many businesses are failing to adequately protect their digital assets. One of the biggest gaps is definitely device security. Many employees rely on personal devices and unsecured home networks, often unintentionally exposing sensitive company data to people who shouldn’t have access, like friends or family members. These seemingly harmless situations can create serious security holes that hackers can exploit.
Common Issues
Device Security: When employees use personal devices that don’t meet corporate security standards, it creates risk. Think of things like old software, weak passwords, or the absence of critical protections like encryption or antivirus software.
Unsecured Networks: Home networks are not built with business security in mind. Many people still use default router passwords and basic firewall setups, making their connections easy for cybercriminals to hack.
Third-Party Exposure: When working from home, employees might work in spaces shared with family members, unintentionally exposing company information to people who aren’t authorized to see it. This increases the risk of data leaks.
Solutions:
Enforce Security on Personal Devices: Businesses should require their employees to install essential security software, including VPNs, firewalls, and encryption tools, on any device used for work. It’s also important to require multi-factor authentication to ensure secure access.
Secure Home Networks: Encourage employees to update their router firmware, change default passwords, and strengthen their home firewall settings. Companies might even consider offering stipends or guidelines to help employees upgrade to more secure networking equipment.
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): One way to sidestep personal device vulnerabilities is by using a VDI. This creates a secure, central environment for employees to access company systems, keeping work and personal data separate.
Educate Employees: Businesses should also regularly train their employees on best practices for data security, both online and in their home environments. Employees need to understand the risks of exposing company data and take steps to protect both their digital and physical spaces.
By addressing these vulnerabilities, businesses can significantly reduce the chances of their digital assets being compromised, even while working remotely.
Richard Lofthouse is the Head of Risk and Data Science at InFlux Technologies
