Remote work can greatly impact cybersecurity. A remote work environment raises the risk of cyber-attacks and data breaches as a result of security skills shortages, vulnerable networks, cloud-based infrastructures, employee work habits and cyber criminals. Cybercriminals are becoming ever bolder with the shift to remote work as they expose the vulnerabilities of workers by specifically targeting them. By targeting the specific worker rather than the entire corporation, Cybercriminals can be more successful in their endeavours. If you would like to learn some helpful tips for yourself or your employees, read below!
How to Do Cybersecurity While Working from Home:
1. Don’t do Mobile Devices
Only work from your corporate devices as it’s the most secure. Working from your phone opens gateways for phishing scams and hackers to infiltrate.
2. Use Multi-factor authentication
Always add layers of security to your devices (passwords, PINs, biometric login)
3. Enable Firewalls and anti-virus software
Firewalls block malicious traffic and anti-virus software scans files for malware.
4. Protect your Wi-fi
Remote work may mean you will be connected to your own Wi-fi. To ensure the security of your Wi-fi choose strong and difficult passwords. If you are using a public Wi-fi network, use a VPN, which is a secure encrypted tunnel through which information is sent. This will protect your personal data.
What to Look Out For (spotting malicious emails):
1. Spear-phishing email:
A spear-phishing email is created using the recipient’s personal or professional characteristics and interests. Threats could include information found online about the recipient with the goal of stealing sensitive data.
2. Whaling email:
A Whaling email is only sent to high-profile individuals or executives at an organization. The email will contain personal information with the goal of stealing sensitive data.
3. Quishing:
A Quishing email uses QR codes that re-directs you to phishing websites.
Spotting malicious emails can be difficult and there are countless types of scams. Read below on how to handle malicious emails!
How to Handle Malicious emails:
1. DO NOT CLICK ON ANY LINKS:
Do not click on any links or open any attached files. Investigate the email by looking up the company or looking at the email address.
2. Report!
Reporting suspicious emails is a great way to ensure that you will not be emailed from the email again and that others can be protected as their account will be reviewed.
Want to learn more about this topic? Visit this government of Canada article to learn more – https://www.cyber.gc.ca/en/guidance/spotting-malicious-email-messages-itsap00100
