July 12, 2024 | By christa

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Protecting Your Business in a Hybrid Work Environment

• Cybersecurity

Two things have been on the rise since March 2020, hybrid work environments and cyberthreats. With 74% of employers now offering hybrid work, businesses are more likely to experience cyber attacks.

Sure, with a hybrid work model, you’re more likely to see higher employee satisfaction, increased productivity, cost savings, and the list goes on. However, you shouldn’t sleep on the significant security challenges it also brings, and being proactive about these challenges can make all the difference.

Creating a Hybrid Security Plan

To foster a successful shift into a hybrid work model, you should implement a two-part strategy for safeguarding your data.

Part 1: Understanding the Biggest Threats

Understand the threats specific to hybrid work, such as phishing attacks, unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and weak passwords. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in personal devices and home networks to access sensitive business data.

Part 2:  Implementing Protective Measures

This article will dive into part two of the process: implementing cybersecurity solutions like endpoint protection and other protective measures to safeguard your business.

On that note, here are 5 things you can start doing immediately to enhance your digital security:

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
   Think of MFA as a double-lock system for your digital assets. Besides a password, it requires an additional verification step, like a code sent to a mobile device. This added layer of security makes it significantly harder for hackers to access your accounts, even if they manage to steal your passwords.
2. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
   Imagine a VPN as a secure tunnel that connects your remote employees to your company’s network. When using a VPN, all data transmitted between the employee’s device and your network is encrypted, making it difficult for hackers to intercept sensitive information. This is crucial for maintaining privacy and security when employees work from various locations.
3. Endpoint Protection
   Every device that connects to your network – laptops, smartphones, tablets – is a potential entry point for cyber threats. Endpoint protection involves using software to secure these devices from malware, viruses, and other cyber attacks. This software can detect and neutralize threats before they cause harm, ensuring that all endpoints accessing your network are secure.
4. Security Training
   One of the most effective ways to protect your business is to educate your employees about cybersecurity. Regular security training can help employees recognize phishing attempts, use strong passwords, and follow best practices for data protection. By making cybersecurity solutions a part of your company culture, you empower your team to act as the first line of defense against cyber threats.
5. Remote Work Policies
   Establishing clear remote work policies is vital for maintaining security. These policies should outline the acceptable use of company devices, guidelines for accessing the network remotely, and procedures for reporting security incidents. Ensure that all employees are aware of these policies and understand the importance of adhering to them.

Start Securing Your Hybrid Work Environment Today

As remote and hybrid work becomes the norm, make sure you’re implementing the above strategies effectively. By taking proactive steps, you’re mitigating the potential loss of sensitive data and minimizing the risk of cyber threats.

Protect your business and empower your employees to work securely from any location. For more expert guidance and comprehensive IT solutions tailored to your needs, contact LeadingIT today.

LeadingIT is a cyber-resilient technology and cybersecurity support provider. With our concierge support model, we provide customized solutions to meet the unique needs of nonprofits, schools, manufacturers, accounting firms, government agencies, and law offices with 20-200 employees in the Chicagoland area. Our team of experts solves the unsolvable while helping our clients leverage technology to achieve their business goals, ensuring the highest level of security and reliability.