Now more than ever, businesses are recruiting remote workers from multiple parts of the globe. Your workforce may consist of on-site workers, remote workers and independent contractors/vendors. Coordinating these parties is no easy task, as the risks surrounding data security continue to expand. With hacking attempts being registered every 39 seconds, your top priority should be to secure company data when it’s being accessed by remote employees.
How to Maintain Strong Computer Network Security for Remote Workers
Keep Personal and Business Data Separate
One key to maintaining computer network security is to encourage your remote employees to separate their personal and business data at all times. The best approach is to use different machines altogether, but proper organization also matters. For example, your business data should only be kept in secure folders that require a password to access. Also, take advantage of software (such as project management tools) that allow you to keep track of what each employee is doing.
Back Up Data Regularly
With remote workers, the risk of data loss is even higher than with your on-site team. This is why regular data backups are critical. Have your employees back up data to the cloud as they work, and also, encourage them to keep a physical drive (with secured access) for backing up such data.
Avoid Conducting Work Using Unsecured Wi-Fi Connections
You’d be surprised just how many employees access sensitive company data over public Wi-Fi. While working at the local coffee shop is a relaxing experience, ensure your remote workers only access business information using secure Wi-Fi connections.
Use Strong Passwords
Proper password management is another important step for your remote employees to follow. All passwords used to access company emails and systems should meet the following criteria:
- Minimum of 6-10 characters
- Consist of numbers, letters and symbols
- No phrases that are easy to guess (such as the names of family members)
Also ensure all remote workers use two-factor authentication. This is a process where employees need to verify their login from a secondary device (such as a mobile phone) when accessing your system from a new location/device.
Use Secure Network Connections
Whenever your employees access websites, they should only trust those with secure HTTPS protocols. Such sites are less prone to containing malware (or phishing messages) that may infiltrate your systems and cause data breaches.
Network Security Associates offers a variety of services to boost and maintain your computer network security. Contact us today at 702-547-9800 to learn more about our IT services and schedule a free network security inspection.