Remote Work Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Business Beyond the Office

COVID-19 opened the floodgates to a remote workforce. Even today, hybrid and remote work remain common across the U.S. According to Gallup, more than half of workers now have the option to work remotely at least part of the time—and many say they’d like to continue indefinitely.

Yet still, many businesses have failed to take a close look at work-from-home (WFH) cybersecurity.

Gaps Remain with Cybersecurity for Remote Workers

Security incidents have increased owing to remote workers. Malwarebytes reported that remote workers caused a security breach in 20% of organizations, leading to unforeseen costs to address computer breaches and malware infections.

Before the pandemic, cybersecurity was reasonably straightforward. Your firewall separated the outside world from the inside. That defensive line is now blurred, and it leads to complications with security.

All it takes is a worker’s home computer getting hacked to open a door into your network. Even a simple misconfiguration of a home-based device can lead to a cyber breach.

The use of cloud services and collaboration tools has expanded to support home workers. In many instances, storage buckets or access controls get set up improperly, opening the door for cyber-attacks. The same holds true for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and improperly configured devices.

Phishing has accelerated to new heights. According to industry surveys, companies experience thousands of phishing attempts each month. More than half of businesses have seen an increase in phishing activity since COVID.

Additional findings from Malwarebytes:

• 44% of organizations failed to provide cyber awareness training about the threats of working from home.
• 45% of businesses failed to perform security and privacy analyses of software tools.
• 61% provided work-issued devices, but 65% did not use a new antivirus solution on them.
• 61% failed to require antivirus software on personal devices.

Fewer Organizations Feel Prepared for a Cyber-Attack

Before the pandemic, 71% of organizations felt prepared for cyber-attacks. That number has dropped below 50% today. The biggest concerns relate to personal devices and employee security practices.

Other findings:

• Only 35% of organizations require multi-factor authentication.
• 42% don’t know how to defend against attacks directed at remote workers.
• Less than half monitor networks 24/7.
• Half encrypt their data.
• Just 50% have security policies for remote workers.
• Only 43% are running cyber awareness campaigns.

Remote work cybersecurity gaps are not going away. The hybrid workforce is here to stay, which means companies must take action to protect themselves.

5 Defenses for Remote Workers

Even with the best defenses, there’s no guarantee you won’t suffer a breach. But there are proactive steps you can take to protect your workforce.

1. Policy Creation

Start with clear policies regarding cybersecurity and data access. Make sure employees are aware of all security policies and hold them accountable.

Employees should receive some level of cybersecurity awareness training. Alert them to phishing dangers and how to respond.

2. Multi-Factor Authentication

Use two-factor authentication for all logins. Microsoft reports that MFA blocks more than 99% of automated attacks. Also, set password standards regarding length and complexity.

Consider a password manager like 1Password, Keeper, or LastPass to reduce risks.

3. Secure Connections

Remote workers need secure connections. At the very least, use a VPN. Incorporate tools to ensure security patches are up-to-date.

For advanced protection, consider Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop for secure access to company resources.

4. Protect Remote Devices

Endpoint devices are a top target for cybercriminals. Employees should have updated antivirus and malware protection, as well as data protection enabled on all devices.

Our 24/7 IT Support team can help monitor and secure devices across your network.

5. Data Loss Prevention

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) protects corporate information from misuse, loss, or access by unauthorized users. It segments and classifies data and identifies policy violations. Administrators can control what data employees transfer and to whom.

Pairing DLP with data backup and recovery solutions ensures business continuity in the event of a breach.

Reduce WFH Cybersecurity Threats with a World-Class MSP

Security isn’t failproof even within your company walls. Adding a remote workforce multiplies your risk. It’s a lot to handle, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. That’s why it pays to work with a trusted cybersecurity company near you.

IntermixIT has access to advanced remote security solutions and provides a complete suite of cybersecurity services tailored for businesses in Southeastern PA. We serve clients in Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Lebanon, Reading, Allentown, Hershey, West Chester, Carlisle, and Philly with managed IT services, supplemental IT services, and always-on IT support.

FAQs: Remote Work Cybersecurity

Why is remote work a cybersecurity risk?
Remote work often involves personal devices, home networks, and unsecured cloud tools that expand the attack surface for cybercriminals.

What’s the biggest security threat for remote workers?
Phishing and credential theft remain the top threats, followed by ransomware delivered via email.

How can I protect my business from remote work risks?
Enforce multi-factor authentication, use VPNs, secure endpoints, and provide ongoing cybersecurity training for employees.

Does IntermixIT help secure remote workforces?
Yes. IntermixIT provides cybersecurity services, 24/7 IT support, and cloud solutions to help businesses secure remote and hybrid teams.