As long as we have internet and computers, we can complete our job tasks from anywhere in the world. As much as the facility to work remotely sounds attractive it comes with a number of subsequent security problems and consequences that most of us are not aware of.
The corporate systems and networks are less prone to any security problems as compared to our personal computers and networks. Though our systems are secure and safe from a variety of security protocols there still may be a chance while using Wi-Fi at home or through a public hotspot that our device could become prone to online threats.
In this article, there is a brief discussion regarding the 5 ways that help you work remotely without putting your personal data at stake.
Investing in Antivirus Software:
One of the most basic deterrent or precaution to avoid being hacked is by investing in good antivirus software. Many company-issued devices come with security software but it is always better to purchase one if you are using your personal device. Often security suites are offered with internet services at a very minimal price that can be afforded easily by anyone and so anyone can surf the internet safely. However, internet service providers like AT&T internet take user cybersecurity very seriously and opt to offer a security suite absolutely free with their internet connection.
The professionals working from home are often urged by the internet service providers to purchase or invest in this resource as the benefits outweigh the cost. Some people may find it expensive or an extra investment but if we take a look at the amount of data that can be stolen or harmed through a cyber-attack, anyone would jump into spending a few bucks once each month and not take the risk.
Using a Strong and Better Encryption
WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy which is an older version of the security standards of Wi-Fi routers. It is obsolete privacy and can be easily penetrated with the help of hacking suites such as aircrack-ng.
WPA protection should be used to keep the invaders away from your network. It comes with several variants of security for example WPA2, WPA-AES. WPA protection can be used by both households and small businesses, with a pre-shared key that can be changed. The key is used as a password and is shared with the trusted users’ group only. Whereas WPA2 is an updated variant of its prototype WPA. It has better network access control, thus data protection.
It is preferred to opt for WPA2 AES from the above-mentioned security protocols as it uses AES cipher to keep the transmissions safe, and also because penetrating the encryption method is not possible.
Using Firewall:
The pre-loaded firewall comes with routers, which are also worth the cost. A firewall works as a virtual filter keeping all the unsolicited or extra traffic away from your network while keeping it secure. It is also the first barrier against any cyber-attack.
Network Address Translation (NAT) is a system that is operated by Wi-Fi routers. It prevents the invaders from recognizing the individual device address; hence, any extra traffic that is unwanted is blocked before gaining end-user device access.
A firewall can identify any suspicious activity. If there is any application on your device that is working in a way that may compromise the security, a firewall will identify it and eliminate its access from receiving or sending any data.
Updating the Router Firmware:
In order to make sure that the hardware works efficiently, it must have updated software. Routers mostly update their protocols automatically, but if your router is not updated automatically then you must regularly check if there’s an update just like you change your Wi-Fi password.
In order to stay updated about any new viruses developed that may compromise your security, you should keep in touch with the cybersecurity news. To know if the company has introduced any new security updates to avoid new threats, you need to check the updates of your router’s firmware.
Practicing Browsing Safely:
You should always keep your hands off from visiting any website that may potentially intrude on your network just as you avoid visiting any bad neighborhood, as it may make your network prone to threats. Cybercriminals with the help of different new strategies try to trap unwary victims to snip their sensitive valuable data.
Therefore, you should always stay away from any content or pop-up promotion that is doubtful or uncertain as opening these links may allow any hacker to send any unapproved intruder or distrustful parties into your network that may harm or steal your personal information. So, in order to avoid giving hackers a chance to surprise you, try and practice safe browsing.
Bottom Line:
Try to practice and implement the above-mentioned methods in order to avoid your personal information or data from cyber threats. You thinking that it will not happen to you may result in you getting included in the cybercrime stats. In order to stay safe, use safe and advanced technologies and common sense or instinct.
If you find anything suspicious, it means it is something that isn’t right. On the other hand, if something is appealing to you and looking fine, that does not guarantee that it is not a scam. Now since you’re aware of cyber threats, keep your guards up high and stay safe!
