Importance of Employee Device Security
With more employees around the world working from home than ever before, it’s important that as an employer or manager, you understand the types of devices that are being used by your employees. While research shows that more than 60% of those surveyed by Kaspersky use their own devices to work from home, only around 1/3 of small businesses informed employees of various device security requirements.
Cyberattacks are Targeting Small Businesses Like Never Before
Statistics show that small businesses are a big target for cyber attacks. A recent study showed that so far in 2020, roughly 1/3 of attacks have involved small businesses. As more and more employees work from home, small businesses can find themselves even more exposed to cyber crime.
While cyber security may have become an afterthought during the current COVID-19 epidemic, it’s something that needs to be front and center when it comes to protecting your company for the future.
Tips to Keep Your Employees and Their Devices Secure
Below are just a few suggestions we typically offer those who are looking to keep their employees protected, even if they’re using personal devices:
- Antivirus Protection – Ensure all devices are protected with some type of antivirus solution. Also ensure that the latest version of these packages is always installed and kept up to date.
- Password Protection – All mobile devices should require passwords as well as home WiFi routers. Encryption should also be enabled on home networks, preferably WPA2.
- Operating System Updates – All operating systems should be updated to the latest versions because OS manufacturers often will release patches to fix security vulnerabilities.
- Avoid Old and Outdated Systems – Be sure that your employees are using up to date devices. An example of this would be old computers that have not been updated to Windows 10. Because Microsoft is no longer supporting these devices with software updates they can be easy prey for hackers.
- Continuous Training – Ongoing cyber security training is important whether you have employees in the office or they’re working from home. Talking to a managed IT provider like Unified Network Group can help you to ensure your employees are constantly on the lookout for potential online threats.
Need Help Securing Your Remote Workforce?
If you’re still unsure of how to properly secure your remote workforce, now’s the time to contact Unified Network Group a call. We can provide you with a detailed security assessment to determine where you may be most vulnerable when it comes to keeping your employees, your corporate data and your customers safe and secure. Give us a call today at 864-278-0202 to start a conversation with one of our managed IT specialists.