Due to recent events, many employees have transitioned from their traditional office jobs into remote positions over the past several months.
Although working from home can be seen as a blessing, there is one thing that people often tend to overlook: their cybersecurity.
Make Your Home Office Safe and Secure
While working in an office, many employees are shielded by strict software and content restrictions. Companies will generally implement these restrictions to protect their devices and sensitive data.
However, this isn’t the case when you work from home. Remote workers have to find ways to protect their devices and data from cyber-attackers.
Falling victim to a cyber-attacker or hacker’s ploys can result in severe consequences. Some examples include:
- Compromise sensitive work-related data (customer information, employee records, SIN numbers, etc.)
- Jeopardize financial data
- Blackmail
But how do you protect yourself from cyber threats? Well, you can start by securing your home office.
Download Antivirus Software
If you use your personal computer for work, you should download antivirus software immediately.
Failing to install a reliable antivirus program makes you a prime target for cyber-attackers and hackers. Getting targeted by a cyber-attacker can result in several issues, ranging from identity theft to blackmail.
Even though most computers have some form of native cybersecurity software, these programs aren’t capable of identifying minute signs of malicious software (malware) that can steal your data.
If you want a high level of protection, you should download the best antivirus software you can find.
Modern antivirus software uses heuristic technology to safeguard your device from dangerous malware that can jeopardize you or your employer.
Bonus Tip – Mac Users Need Antivirus Protection Too!
If you’ve heard the urban legend that MacBooks and iMacs are impervious to malware, then you may not think that you need to protect your Mac from viruses.
Unfortunately, this isn’t true.
Today’s cyber-attackers have crafted devious forms of malware that can bypass a Mac product’s native cybersecurity software. In fact, recent studies have found that Macs are now outpacing Windows in cyber threats.
If you want to avoid malware and other pesky cyber threats, you should download a high-quality, Mac-specific antivirus program from a company with a proven track record.
Multi-Factor Authentication Software
Have you ever heard of multi-factor authentication (MFA) software before?
For those who haven’t, MFA software is an invaluable tool that can drastically improve your device’s cybersecurity level.
MFAs require users to provide multiple forms of identification before using any features on the device. Some examples of these forms of identification include:
- Knowledge (password, number combination, etc.)
- Possessions (barcode, ID card, etc.)
- Inherent features (fingerprints, voice recognition, etc.)
MFA software makes it nearly impossible for everyday thieves and burglars to access your device.
As an example, if a burglar breaks into your home office and steals your laptop, they may be able to guess your password, but they won’t be able to replicate your fingerprint or voice.
Don’t Share Your Computer
This is one of the biggest cybersecurity mistakes you can make as a small business owner or remote worker.
As a rule of thumb, you should never share your device with anyone, even the other members of your household.
Summary
If you want to secure your home office but don’t know where to start, you may consider using the tips mentioned above.
Data privacy and security is one of the most important factors that every business or company has to maintain. Keep it at par wherever you work, even at the comforts of your home.
Some other articles you might find of interest:
Marketing blogs you must follow as an entrepreneur:
29 Marketing Blogs Every Small Business Must Follow
Are you feeling cramped in your home office space? You might enjoy this article:
Home Office Design Ideas for Small Spaces
