Remote Workforce IT Security

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the world in many ways. And while the damage was severe in terms of loss of both lives and money, even tragedies can spawn some positive outcomes. Many of the changes from Covid 19 still resonate through our lives, from better food and grocery pick-up systems to the dreaded Zoom meeting. But no change is more significant than remote work. So, how do you provide IT security for a remote workforce?

While remote work has expanded the possibilities for both companies - small businesses can choose the best employee instead of the nearest and employees – people can incorporate work into their lives with more time for themselves and their families and less for commuting; there are also undoubtedly some drawbacks.  

Whether the balance works for your business depends on many factors, from the physical need for employees in a physical location vs. the cost of renting to balancing team spirit vs. employee satisfaction. 

However, one thing is certain: IT security for a remote workforce takes a plan, just as it does for one in the office.

The Pillars of IT Security for a Remote Workforce

Remote work requires extra protocols to keep everyone safe. Some are technical. Some are physical. They fall into the categories of protecting physical equipment, proper online security, and what you, as an employer, can do.

Physical Equipment

Let's start with something basic. If you work in the office, your computers should not be accessible to anyone who doesn't work there. The same is true for remote workers.  

Your employees need to know to not leave their laptops or other devices unattended. This is especially relevant if you have employees who prefer working in places like coffee shops.

It seems obvious, but sometimes people get too comfortable and leave the computer behind for a refill or bathroom break. That can lead to theft – physical or data.  

Passwords and Authentification

Your remote workforce must follow the same password complexity guidelines as your in-person workforce. They also need to be aware of phishing scams and know how to avoid them. Finally, you should set up multifactor authentification to ensure that no one can pose as an employee to gain access to company data.  

What the Company Can Do for IT Security for a Remote Workforce

As an employer, much of the IT security for a remote workforce falls on you. There are many things you can do to keep your data safe.  

Firstly, keep data in the cloud. AesirTech's Business plan includes Microsoft 365, which, with employee buy-in, will securely store your data.

To keep your data extra secure set up a VPN (virtual private network) so that your people are not connecting over an insecure network.

Finally, keep all your software protected and up to date. Hackers look for outdated security so they can exploit it's loopholes.

Communication

The final key to IT security for a remote workforce is one that's simple, though not always easy in practice: communication.

Just like managing remote (or any) employees or every type of relationship, clearly communicating guidelines, educating employees, and setting expectations (such as everything we discussed throughout this blog) will determine if you keep your data safe.  

AesirTech Consulting can set initial parameters and even clean up messes after the fact, but the best scenario is one where your employees understand how to take care of company and client data.

 We can help you build and implement a cybersecurity plan. You will also need to ensure your employees follow it.