WyzGuys Tech Talk

By Joey Pepka of Peptronix

Use Antivirus Software
Ensure that every device used for work has an effective antivirus system installed. Antivirus software can help businesses avoid ransomware attacks, malware, trojans, spyware, and DDoS attacks. Business owners and managers must invest in a comprehensive antivirus tool for all their employees to ensure everyone is protected. Even if you’re an individual remote employee, like a freelancer, you can install free antivirus software that will keep you safe. Do your research before choosing your provider.

Keep All Your Apps and Systems Up to Date
Remote employees must regularly update the systems and the programs they use. Many apps update to patch security threats, meaning they have discovered a flaw in previous versions and have fixed it.

Set Clear Remote Work Policies
Define clear, formalized remote work policies that dictate how remote employees connect to work systems and interact with data. For example, you could require that remote workers use VPNs or password managers for secure access.

Use a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) is software that provides end-to-end encryption for all your online activity. VPN software is often inexpensive and needs to be installed on every remote worker’s device.

Opt for Cloud Software
If your workforce is hybrid or remote, it’s best to opt for cloud software. Standalone software is inefficient for remote work. Take writing apps, for example. You can use a basic tool like MS Word and share individual files, feedback, and edits via endless email chains, or you can use a tool like Google Docs or Grammarly to write, share, and comment effortlessly.

Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication requires users to provide more than a password to access their apps and data. Since singular passwords are easier to access for cybercriminals, many companies opt for multi-factor authentication. In a typical multi-factor authentication login process, remote workers must enter the password and request an OTP or one-time code on their phone, email, or separate security apps.

Protect Your Passwords
Passwords are often the first measure of protection against cybercriminals. Your password has to be long and include:

Capital letters
Lowercase letters
Numbers
Special characters

It might be annoying to set up, but it’s definitely worth the hassle.

Beware of Email Scams
Emails are essential for communication, but they’re also a primary tool for cybercriminals. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center- ITRC, phishing was the most common type of cyber-attack for data breaches. Security training can help to combat this by teaching remote workers to spot suspicious links within emails and avoid them.

Secure Video Meetings
Remote businesses rely on video calling platforms like Zoom or Google Meet to hold meetings. However, some security risks can come with using these platforms. Zoom, for example, has had issues with uninvited individuals accessing meetings to troll or harass people. The platform eliminated “Zoom-bombing” by addressing security flaws. Many other platforms have dealt with similar issues. Allow access control via password protection or a waiting room for guests to request access.

Use Trusted Third-Party Providers
As a remote business owner, it’s important to outsource tasks. You can’t handle everything on your own. Many small and medium-sized businesses that support remote or hybrid working often outsource marketing, content marketing, IT management, and more so they can focus on other essential tasks.