Are you telecommuting during this Coronavirus outbreak? While it is true that working from home can help slow the spread of the virus, it also poses new challenges: taking care of work with children at home because school is closed; learn to use new teleconferencing software and programs, and handle printed files at home. We give you some recommendations to protect your devices and personal information when you are setting up your systems to work at home.
It starts with the basics of cybersecurity.
Keep your security software up to date. Manage passwords on all your devices and applications. Make sure your passwords are long, strong, and unique - at least 12 characters with a mix of numbers, symbols, and uppercase and lowercase letters.
Protect your home network.
Start with your router. Enable encryption (WPA2 or WPA3). Encryption shuffles the data you send over your network so that strangers can't read it. WPA2 and WPA3 are the most up-to-date encryption patterns to protect information sent over a wireless network. Does your router not offer you the WPA3 or WPA2 options? Try updating your router software, and check again if the WPA2 or WPA3 system is available. If they are not available, consider replacing your router.
Keep an eye on your laptop.
If you are using a laptop, make sure it is password protected and in a secure locked location. Never neglect it - for example, don't leave it in a public vehicle or battery charging station.
Safely save files with sensitive information.
When there is a legitimate business need to transfer confidential information from the office to the home, keep those files out of the reach of others and under lock and key. If you don't have a locked filing cabinet in your home, use a locked room.
Dispose of sensitive data safely.
Do not throw them in your regular garbage or recycling bin. Grind them up. Job papers that contain information about clients or employees that you no longer need can be a treasure trove for identity thieves.
Follow your employer's safety practices.
Now your home is an extension of your office. So follow the protocols implemented by your employer.
Do you want to learn more? Read our materials on cybersecurity for small businesses and our articles on online security. If you can work from home, we appreciate your help in reducing the spread of the Coronavirus.
If you work for an organization or if you are 100% independent, you must take the necessary measures in relation to the email client you are going to use, the antivirus / antimalware solutions, and, of course, the best practices for a safe and risk-free workday, as far as possible.
It is very important to coordinate well with the IT support managers. Thus, the transition to work from home and day to day will not be traumatic, and you will not run risks due to cyberattacks such as ransomware.
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