If you are already telecommuting, you probably already have your security affairs in order for this is a prerequisite for working remotely for any discriminating employer. It is important for the responsible telecommuter to have the basic security measures instilled as the standard operating procedure if you intend to work remotely for someone else (plus they are good measures to have in place for your own safety and security in an uncertain world). These methods protect both you and your employer.
Secure Your Wi-Fi
Starting at the beginning, since you will be using your wireless router at home to access the Internet and conduct business on the behalf of you employer, make sure to change your home Wi-Fi router’s password to something unique, and not your Internet provider’s default password.
Raise Your Wireless Security Awareness
If you are accessing wireless networks while in transit or at different locations, avoid connecting to public networks, especially when working. You don’t want to be the weak link in your employer’s system, and there are many cybersecurity threats and criminals out there scanning for vulnerable remote workers, don’t be one of them.
If you must access an open network be extremely cautious. Only log-in to secure sites (HTTPS) and heed warnings of outdated, untrusted, or self-signed security certificates. An antivirus program is essential, and it is a good idea to have a VPN onboard, even if your employer does not require a VPN.
Unique Passwords
This may feel uncomfortable, especially if you have been using a limited number of passwords that you can remember to log-in to things. In a secure work from home scenario, every device, every program, service, and web site should have its own unique password. Preferably one you cannot remember off the top of your head. And (here it comes) you need to change them periodically to keep them fresh.
If this sounds overwhelming, you can use a password manager, which is a security tool that keeps track of all your passwords so that you don’t have to remember them. You will need to remember only one password, the one to access your password manager, then you let it do all the heavy lifting by securely logging you in.
Data Security Mindset
Be extremely mindful and guard private and proprietary information with integrity, which means not to disclose any confidential or personal information over the phone or in emails. Cybercriminals are quite adept at impersonating management, staff, friends, or coworkers to compromise your data.
If something doesn’t sound right or seems like it might potentially lead to compromise, call up your security team or project manager, and report the incident or suspicious activity. It does not reflect upon you poorly to err on the side of caution.
Software Updates
Do not put off security updates on your devices or software. These updates help keep you and your information protected. New patches and updates are released whenever any potential for breach is discovered by the provider.
Plus, the updates keep the software working effectively when exchanging and interacting with other users and coworkers who are using the same software. It is helpful to rely on everyone using the same versions of the product.
Verified Software Tools
If you are used to finding free software to help you to accomplish a task quickly, do not use the computer you work with to do so, and you would be best advised to stop doing so altogether. Unfortunately, free software is a breeding ground for malicious software.
Try to stick to software solutions that are registered and approved by your security team, management, or other team members. Again, keeping everyone on the same page, whenever possible, for consistency and security.