Top cyber security risks of remote work & how to keep your business protected

Remote work has become the new normal, offering flexibility (hello, pyjamas all day!) but also opening the door to new cyber security challenges. If you’re looking for cyber security in Milton Keynes, contact our team to see how we can help protect your business. We work with organisations of all sizes to keep their data secure, no matter where they work. Here are the top five cyber security risks of remote work and our tips to keep them in check.

“Ensuring robust cyber security measures and fostering a culture of cyber awareness among remote workers is paramount. In today’s digital landscape, where remote work is increasingly common, understanding and mitigating cyber security risks is essential to protect both personal and business data.”

1. Phishing Attacks 

Phishing attacks are like those too-good-to-be-true “you’ve won a free holiday” emails. Hackers send emails that look legitimate, such as from your bank or even your boss, luring you to click on risky links. These can infect your computer with malware faster than you can say “Oops!”

• Think twice before clicking on unexpected emails or links.
• Skip attachments from unknown senders (no matter how tempting they sound).
• Use a password manager for unique, hard-to-guess passwords instead of “password123.”
• Run a phishing simulation to train your team on spotting scams.

2. Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks

Ah, coffee shops—great for lattes, not so great for secure Wi-Fi. Public networks make it all too easy for hackers to snoop on your sensitive data.

• Avoid public Wi-Fi for work if possible, or at least use protection.
• Get a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection, even on that dodgy café Wi-Fi.
• Change your home Wi-Fi password to something unique (no, “password” doesn’t count).

3. Data Breaches 

Data breaches happen when hackers swipe sensitive info, like customer data or employee records. Let’s just say, the less we give them to swipe, the better.

• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication to keep your accounts locked up tight.
• Encrypt sensitive data so it doesn’t get intercepted en route.
• Be cautious on social media (hackers don’t need to know about your new puppy).
• Consider a secure cloud-based storage solution for easy, encrypted backup.

4. Outdated Software and Systems

When was the last time you updated your software? If you can’t remember, it’s probably been too long. Outdated software is an open invitation for hackers—don’t leave them RSVP’ing to your systems! Cloud & More, an IT company in Milton Keynes, helps businesses stay up-to-date remotely, so nothing’s left behind.

• Set devices to auto-update so you’re always on the latest version.
• Schedule regular check-ins with your remote team to ensure everyone’s devices are updated.
• Consider remote IT support to keep your whole team’s tech in tip-top shape.

5. Insufficient Data Backup 

Remote work can mean a bigger risk of data loss if your backup game isn’t strong. Don’t wait until you’ve accidentally spilled coffee on your laptop (we’ve all been there!).

• Back up your data regularly to a secure, remote server.
• Use cloud storage that automatically backs up data, so your work is safe and sound.
• Remind your team to be backup-savvy to prevent any “oh no” moments.

Strong cyber security practices don’t just protect you—they protect your Business and clients too. If you’re interested in cyber security support in Milton Keynes for your remote workforce, Cloud & More is ready to help. We’re an IT company in Milton Keynes dedicated to keeping businesses secure, connected, and coffee-spill-proof.