Navigating how we use the internet is critical. In the age of remote work, working while traveling, and yes, still working from the office. Cyber threats are always at play, so make sure that you are using the internet in a way that helps mitigate that threat and reduces the risk of lost data security. Here are several things to take into account when evaluating how your use of the web for work can threaten data security at the office.
The Value of VPN
Before COVID-19 sent most offices into work from home mode, many businesses were already testing the waters of remote work. There are many business advantages to having a remote workforce. That includes increased productivity of remote hires, more flexibility for hiring talent, and increased availability of existing team members who may travel or need to stay productive outside the office. For those professionals able to set their own schedule and work from their own preferred locations, the time spent getting the job done is more focused and productive. There are fewer distractions, and workers remain more engaged.
Having a team working in a different time zone can help your business stay productive on a 24-hour shift. But if those remote workers don’t have access to the network, they might very well struggle to do their best when their resources are restricted. Also, you risk valuable data loss or vulnerability to hacking by relying on a remote team.
VPN has long been the answer to these remote work security concerns, and it is even more relevant today. VPN provides secure access to the internal network that remote employees need to be productive day in and day out. It furthermore limits risk by ensuring a secure connection while giving your remote workers access to the resources they need. Making sure that remote workers have access to the right information and resources via your internal network is critical, but it must be provided with the data security to ensure your sensitive information is kept safe. But with VPN, data security is protected while your workforce can stay in touch just like any other employee.
VPN is not the only thing you should be concerned with when it comes to the security of your remote workforce however.
Limit Use of Unsecure Connections
If you know your remote workers are going to be on the road, a VPN is critical. Wi-Fi connections (in business lounges, trains, coffee shops, etc.) can lead to data breaches. But the use of unsecured Wi-Fi is more common than ever. Our recommendation is to encourage remote workers to always connect to a trusted network. Encourage the use of VPN. Never use public Wi-Fi for sensitive information, as this can be a critical vulnerability for those working from home.
Leveraging Offsite Record Keeping
Now it’s even more apparent than ever that there are significant benefits to offsite record-keeping and cloud-based archives. Businesses can streamline their documentation workflow and save money to boot by partnering with a security-minded records management partner. This enables businesses to save on document’s storage, record retrieval, digitization, and disposition costs. The benefits are clear. That’s why so many companies are making the switch.
If you are ready to make the switch to a more secure and convenient record-keeping or disposal system, connect with the team at Happy Faces Records Management today.
