Best Practices for Supporting Remote Workers
As many companies transition into virtual workspaces, it has created an opportunity that requires genuine and direct communication between employees, business owners, and customers. Employees working remotely are learning best practices to keep company information safe while keeping up with the daily requirements of their jobs. Employers are working hard to provide open lines of communication and make sure they provide secure networks to host information. The digital safety of all parties has become a top priority. With private information on company servers, taking that work to public or home Wi-Fi can create breaches in security.
Help employees stay safe while working remotely by implementing a VPN, utilizing a two-factor identification for cloud networks and teaching vigilance against suspicious attacks.
Utilize a Virtual Private Network
VPN software or a Virtual Private Network is essential to keeping internet traffic and online identities secure. Companies providing VPN services redirect actions online through a remote server and encrypt all sent and received data. Using a VPN prevents a potential hacker from being able to read the secure information found on your browser or in files. Another service a VPN will provide is to hide an individual’s IP address. By routing all information through the VPN, the individual internet service provider (ISP) will be unable to track the specific website being visited or collect metadata. Using safe internet practices while working remotely can prohibit unauthorized individuals from reaching private information such as emails and phone calls.
Implement Two-Factor Authentication for Cloud Applications
Many companies utilize cloud applications like Microsoft Office 365, Salesforce and Workday. These password-protected applications are essential in the day to day for most employees. According to the Verizon 2019 Data Breach Report, 81 percent of hacks are related to passwords. The introduction of Two-Factor Authentication reduces the risk of an attack and increases convenience for its users. To increase security, when a login attempt to the cloud comes from a new device or from a different location, the system will text a code to the user’s phone or email. It can be utilized across multiple software applications including VPN and email reducing the need to repeatedly log in to the system. Having a two-factor authentication system will ensure only authorized employees will be able to access the information on the cloud.
Protection Against Phishing Emails and Malicious Attachments
An email inbox is one of the most common places for potential hackers to find targets. Using techniques such as phishing and attachments containing viruses, hackers have found a way to reach sensitive information in the digital age. To protect information, make sure to only open emails, links, and attachments from people and email addresses that are known. A phishing site often looks extremely similar to its legitimate counterpart.
There might only be one letter or number that misspells the link. Always check that the IP address is correct before entering sensitive information such as your email address and password. Malicious attachments can be sent as documents and are sometimes unavoidable. To protect against these attacks, email attachment scanners with anti-malware and virus protection are recommended for every employee.
What Can I Do to Help My Team?
Keep employees informed of changes and teach the necessary skills to use new software. Make sure to have an open line of communication for questions and problems with remote software. This will show employees that leadership is available for help and that everyone is working through this transition as a team, ensuring a smooth transition. Additionally, making sure that IT software is in place and ready to use now, companies can implement remote work with few (if any) setbacks in case of a future need.
How Instream Can Help You
InStream is dedicated to working with businesses that are making the transition to a remote workforce. We have a decade of experience working across industries and departments. Our IT tech specialists are available to ensure the safety of your private information. We will develop a solution that fits the exact needs of your business and do our part to ensure your workflow is optimized and secure.
Contact us today for an assessment and see how we can help improve processes for your remote employees.
