Tips for Securing Remote Workspaces

Did you know that human error accounts for a staggering 90% of all data breaches?

In today’s remote and hybrid work landscape, where 60% of remote workers utilize unsecured personal devices to access company networks and phishing attacks have surged by 80%, the need for robust cybersecurity measures is undeniable.

The costs associated with cybersecurity breaches are also staggering—according to IBM, the average cost of a data breach recently hit an all-time high of $4.45 million. While it’s more challenging to quantify the damage a cyberattack can have on a company’s reputation, a chilling statistic reveals that 60% of small and medium-sized companies go out of business within six months of a data breach.

1. Basic Cybersecurity Protocols

Ensuring your business’s cybersecurity posture is fundamental to protecting remote environments. All companies, regardless of size, should have basic cybersecurity tools like firewalls, anti-virus software, VPNs, and website filtering/DNS management.

When it comes to cybersecurity, it’s strategically important to protect sensitive data, preserve your company’s reputation, and mitigate financial risks. Neglecting these essential security tools leaves your organization extremely vulnerable to cyberthreats, jeopardizing long-term viability in today’s digital landscape.

2. Network Security

With remote work, the integrity of your network infrastructure is more critical than ever. Implementing robust network security measures is essential if you want to safeguard your organization’s sensitive data, proprietary information, and intellectual assets.

• Network Segmentation. By breaking your network down into smaller, more manageable chunks, each with its own specific security measures, you can better contain any potential breaches, helping keep your critical systems and data from catastrophic harm.
• Network Monitoring. Keeping a close eye on your network in real-time gives you the insight to catch suspicious activities before they become widespread problems.
• Adherence to Secure Wi-Fi Protocols. Like locking your front door to keep unwanted guests out, making sure your wi-fi follows the latest security standards is crucial for keeping remote environments safe.

3. Endpoint Protection

Endpoint detection and response (EDR) is a vital cybersecurity tool every remote workplace should have.

Think of EDR as having a vigilant security guard for every device on your network. EDR continuously monitors your devices in real-time, looking for any signs of trouble. Better yet, when EDR spots something suspicious, it springs into action, automatically quarantining devices and neutralizing threats before they cause widespread harm to your business. With EDR in your cybersecurity strategy, you can rest assured that your remote workplace is protected, no matter where your employees are working.

4. Email Security

Your company’s email is one of the easiest ways for threat actors to hack into your IT infrastructure. Implementing strong email security measures is essential for keeping cybercriminals at bay.

Robust spam filters help act as a first line of defense, separating the good from the bad. Encryption adds an extra layer of protection—it’s like sealing your messages in a virtual envelope, ensuring they’re only seen by the intended recipients.

The most crucial aspect of email security is employee training. By educating your team on how to spot phishing attempts and other malicious emails, you’re arming them with the knowledge they need to defend against cyber threats.

5. SaaS Security

Cloud-based applications are the lifeblood of many remote workplaces. With the amount of data they contain, they’re also shiny targets for threat actors.

Think of SaaS security automation like a guardian that keeps a watchful eye on your digital assets—it’s an indispensable cybersecurity resource for organizations seeking to secure their cloud-based infrastructure, ensuring the efficient and compliant use of SaaS applications.

6. Data Backup and Recovery

Your data is the lifeblood of your business. Implementing regular data backups is akin to having a digital safety net, ensuring that no matter what happens, your business’s vital information is preserved. Your backups should be coupled with a comprehensive recovery plan to restore your data if a breach occurs.

7. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)

SIEM analyzes and logs security events in real-time, acting as an early warning system against threat actors. By employing a blend of advanced AI and diligent human oversight, SIEM serves as an invaluable early warning system, empowering businesses with remote workforces to detect and thwart threats effectively.

In the aftermath of a cyberattack, SIEM is an indispensable ally to systems administrators. By meticulously storing system log files, it facilitates the restoration of files, data, and information while also providing crucial insights into the incident. This invaluable post-attack analysis not only aids in recovering from the breach but also equips organizations with the knowledge needed to fortify their defenses and prevent future cyberthreats.

8. Compliance Regulations

Navigating compliance regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI for remote workplaces is like sailing through a complex sea of legal and technical challenges. Each industry has its own set of rules—understanding and adhering to them is not just a box to check; it’s a vital aspect of safeguarding your company’s reputation and finances.

By ensuring adherence, you not only avoid potential fines and legal entanglements but also bolster trust and credibility in your remote operations.

9. Incident Response Plan

A robust incident response plan is crucial for organizations with a remote workforce. It serves as a strategic framework, empowering organizations to respond swiftly and effectively to cyber incidents. Incident response plans define clear roles and communication protocols, outline containment strategies, and document the steps necessary to respond to a cyberattack.

10. Cyber Insurance

If you have a remote workforce, cyber insurance is something that you should consider. Acting as a safety net against the financial repercussions of a cyber incident, a cyber insurance policy can help cover costs related to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and even reputational damage.

With a remote workforce, building a culture focused on cybersecurity is just as important as the tools your business employs. This approach to cybersecurity ensures that every remote team member is equipped and vigilant as the first line of defense against cyberthreats.

• Security Awareness Training. Regular training sessions are vital to staying up-to-date with the latest cyberthreats. Interactive training methods, like simulations and gamified learning, can significantly enhance engagement and retention.
• Password Education and Management. Encouraging employees to use strong passwords is a cornerstone of cybersecurity. Password managers can be invaluable tools for managing, generating, and storing passwords.
• Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds a layer of security, making unauthorized access significantly more challenging.

Cybersecurity isn’t something to skimp on. As a comprehensive technology partner, we specialize in solutions to keep businesses safe, whether they’re 100% remote, hybrid, or in-office. Ready to get started? Schedule a Cybersecurity Risk Assessment today to identify vulnerabilities or explore our Remote IT Management services tailored for organizations with remote workforces.