The Impact of Remote Work on Security: What You Need to Know

We’ll be following on from our previous blog post and once again touching upon network security, but we’ll focus more on the effects of the recent shift towards more home/remote/hybrid working on corporate security and discuss best practices for maintaining a secure environment. 

The Rise of Remote Work

Remote work is not a new concept; however, the pandemic has made it a necessity for many organizations. According to a recent survey by the Office for National Statistics, 44% of workers reported home or hybrid working. This shift has led to increased reliance on networks for virtual meetings, presentations, and collaboration.

The Security Implications

As organizations adapt to the new normal of remote and hybrid work, the security landscape is also undergoing a transformation. While the shift has enabled unprecedented levels of flexibility and collaboration, it has also introduced a host of security challenges that cannot be ignored. 

In this section, we delve into the specific implications that remote work has had on corporate security, from the complexities of remote access to the increased vulnerabilities that come with a dispersed workforce.

Remote Access to Corporate Networks

Remote access into corporate networks is not new and works well, but it requires sensible security arrangements such as VPN links and appropriate firewalls. Corporate networks are in principle no different, and the same tried-and-tested security measures should be adopted.

Increased Vulnerability

The shift to remote work has expanded the attack surface for cybercriminals. With employees accessing corporate networks from various locations, often using personal devices, the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches has increased.

Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks

Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the situation by launching phishing and social engineering attacks aimed at remote workers. These attacks often target vulnerabilities in software and hardware, making it crucial for organizations to keep their systems up to date.

Best Practices for Secure Networks

While the challenges posed by the shift to remote work are significant, they are not insurmountable. With the right strategies and technologies in place, organizations can secure their networks without compromising on functionality or ease of use. In this section, we outline some of the best practices that can help you maintain a robust and secure network in a remote or hybrid work environment.

Use a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure tunnel between the remote worker and the corporate network, ensuring that all data transmitted is encrypted and secure from eavesdropping.

Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an additional layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods – something the user knows (password), something the user has (security token or phone), or something the user is (biometric verification).

Regular Software Updates

Keeping your software up-to-date is crucial for security. Software vendors regularly release patches for known vulnerabilities, and failing to update can leave your network exposed.

Employee Training

Educate your employees about the risks of phishing and social engineering attacks. Make sure they know how to recognize suspicious activity and whom to contact if they encounter any security issues.

Navigating the Future of Security with Datapath

The transition to remote and hybrid work models has been both a blessing and a challenge for organizations. While it offers unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance for employees, it also brings forth new vulnerabilities in security. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. By implementing tried-and-true security measures like the ones we have explored here, organizations can significantly mitigate risks.

At Datapath, we are committed to helping you navigate these complexities by providing cutting-edge solutions that prioritize both functionality and security. Aetria connects all screens and workstations across the entire control room, meaning operators will now find it much easier to collaborate and respond quickly to any threats. Speak to us to learn more about Aetria can help