It is forecast around 50 per cent of the UK workforce will work remotely by 2020.
The number of users who have moved into remote-working has increased by nearly a quarter of a million between 2012 and 2016, according the Office of National Statistics.
Concerningly, a recent survey by Cybersafe, a global cyber-security firm, found 24 per cent of UK businesses do not have basic security precautions for working remotely.
And, 30 per cent more do not have any measures implemented to restrict file access.
The following points are imperative to ensure you are secure, regardless of where you are working.
Public Wi-Fi is risky for sensitive information
Unsecure public Wi-Fi connections places the user in a vulnerable position when connecting to it for their online work. While public Wi-Fi is okay for general browsing, such as social media, it’s important to not connect to it when working with sensitive information.
Never leave your device unattended
It’s common sense. When working in a public environment you should never leave your machine unattended. Lost of stolen equipment is continually a cause for security incidents; it’s on the rise too!
The strength of your passwords is important
It is good practice to have a different password for every log-in you have. Imagine if a hacker managed to gain access to private information with the same password you have for everything. That’s a disaster in the making.
Visual theft – who’s behind you?
Stealing confidential information does not necessarily mean it has to take place online. Be vigilant regards who is sat around you. Try to face your back to a wall, for example, to prevent people from peeking over your shoulders and reading your work.
Is your anti-virus up-to-date?
One of the most obvious steps to preventing your device by getting a virus is to have reliable software in place. Anti-virus is important for both personal and professional use so be sure to have something installed.
Implement remote working polices
If a business has a remote working policy, it allows employees who work out of the office to clearly understand the do’s and don’ts of working offsite. The policy is an excellent opportunity at ensuring everyone is on the same page regards working remotely – to maximise security and minimise a cyber-attack.
For more information on how Syn-Star Complete I.T. Solutions work with UK businesses to manage their I.T. contact us by clicking here.