How Secure is your Hybrid Workplace? Key Cyber Security Risks and Solutions

Hybrid Working Cyber Security Risks

Unsecured Home Networks

Remote and hybrid workers are more at risk of using unsecured WiFi networks, which may not always be protected by firewalls or antivirus software.

And if there isn’t a company policy against it, some remote workers may work from public spaces (like coffee shops or libraries) and, therefore, use public WiFi networks. These networks are not encrypted, and can be easy for hackers to intercept confidential data.

While VPNs can help to mitigate this risk, it’s helpful to have multiple layers of defence.

Malware and Ransomware

Remote and hybrid working environments can be particularly susceptible to malware and ransomware attacks. From phishing emails to unsecured networks/devices, hackers can gain unauthorised access to systems, files and data, which they may then use to make malicious demands.

Endpoint Security is one of the ways the risk of malware/ransomware can be mitigated, as the endpoints of your organisation (like laptops and smartphones) are the most vulnerable parts of your technological infrastructure.

Lack of Employee Education

Remote or hybrid workers being unaware of cyber security threats, and cyber security best practices, can lead to higher risk.

Employees should be made aware of the different cyber security risks, compliance guidelines and data storage best practices. They should be trained on how to spot cybersecurity risks, and what to do in the event of a cyber attack.

It’s as much the organisation’s responsibility to train individual employees, as it is for them to adhere to the organisation’s cybersecurity policies.

Weak Passwords

Having weak or recycled passwords is one of the biggest threats to hybrid working security, as it makes it easier for hackers to gain access to accounts (they often have software to help crack account passwords, so having commonly used ones will only speed up the process).

In general, strong passwords will include capital letters, numbers and special characters. They shouldn’t include predictable information like names or birthdays. They should also be changed fairly frequently, preferably every six months.

Data Leaks

A big risk of hybrid or remote working is accidentally leaking confidential data. This could happen through storing files in a vulnerable place, sharing files through unsecured channels, or even exposing data when sharing it outside of the secure office space (e.g. taking a work call in a public space).

Having secure data-sharing and file-storage practices is so important for hybrid workers. Apogee’s Cloud Working services can support with safe and secure file sharing and storage.