Is your Remote Workforce your Weakest Link?

Now that the COVID lockdowns are a distant memory, a bit of the surge in the remote workforce has subsided, as many workers have returned to the office. As of April 2025, the telework rate is 21.6%, marking a significant decline from the peak of 37% in early 2021.

Even with those reduced numbers, remote work continues to redefine the modern workplace. The days of rigid office schedules and commutes have seriously deteriorated. With this flexibility comes a new set of challenges and threats. Remote work environments often introduce vulnerabilities to your organization's data and systems.

Currently, 73% of executives believe that remote work poses a significant security risk.

The good news is that with the right cybersecurity strategies these risks can be mitigated. Let’s look at the essential security practices for remote teams that will keep company data safe and secure, no matter your location.

Home Network Security

It’s not just about your company network. What does the worker have at home that supports their network connection?

A ‘MUST HAVE’: Wi-Fi Encryption

Is your ‘work from home’ crew relying on unprotected Wi-Fi? Cyber crooks can grab data out of the air easier than they can from cables and wires, so make sure that your Wi-Fi is encrypted with the latest security protocols, such as the newest and most secure standard, WPA3. This is a foundational step in securing a home network. This prevents unauthorized users from accessing your network and intercepting data.

Change Default Router Settings

Routers are often overlooked, but like many devices, they often come with default usernames and passwords - which are well-known to cyber criminals. Change these to unique, strong credentials. This helps prevent unauthorized access to your network.

Create Strong Passwords

Did you get this memo from the ‘Department of DUH?’ The world’s most used password (123456) is also the most easily cracked (DUH!). A password like that makes you a sitting duck.

Use a Password Manager

With so many complex passwords, using a password manager means you don’t have to remember them all. Password managers can generate, store, and autofill complex passwords. This helps ensure that each account has a unique and strong password, and you only need to remember ONE – the password for the password manager – and DO NOT forget that one.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Everyone should have installed MFA by now. It adds an extra layer of security, so even when a hacker compromises a password, MFA requires a second form of verification – commonly a code sent to your email or smartphone. This second step makes it much harder for attackers to breach accounts.

Protect Your Devices

Antivirus/Anti-Malware Software

All devices used for work purposes need to have up-to-date anti-malware software installed and be set up for automated updates and security patches. These tools can detect and neutralize threats before they cause significant damage.

Automated Updates are Crucial

The threat matrix constantly evolves, and outdated software can have vulnerabilities that are exploited by cybercriminals. To stay protected against the latest threats, enable automatic updates for your:

Operating system

Applications

Security software

Encryption

Set up your data for automatic encryption data. Especially use encrypted storage for sensitive data. This ensures that even if a device is lost or stolen, the data remains inaccessible to hackers – even if they can get it, they can’t read it. You can use both built-in options and third-party solutions.

Protect Your Communication Channels

Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

A Virtual Private Network is simple to use and a lifesaver in many arenas. For a remote workforce, it encrypts your internet traffic. It also provides protection when using ‘Free’ public Wi-Fi (like at a Starbucks). This makes it difficult for attackers to intercept and access your data. Using a reputable VPN service is crucial. Especially when accessing company resources over public or unsecured networks.

Messaging and Email Encryption

Encrypt everything, especially communications in any form. This protects the content of your messages and emails and thwarts many phishing schemes. When choosing messaging and email services, ask about encryption. This can ensure that your communications remain private and secure.

Adopt Safe Browsing Policies & Procedures (P&P)

Browser Security

Keep your web browser updated and configured for cybersecurity, including these steps:

Enable pop-up blockers

Disable third-party cookies

Use secure (HTTPS) connections whenever possible

Know How to Avoid Phishing Attacks

Year after year, phishing continues to be the #1 form of cyber-attack. Be vigilant about unsolicited emails or messages asking for sensitive information. Verify the sender’s identity before clicking on links or downloading attachments.

Establish an Incident Response Plan (IRP – see below), so that your IT Services department can immediately be alerted to suspicious communications. This helps others on your team avoid the same emails.

Enable Ad Blockers

Ads are annoying, but they can also be dangerous. Ad blockers can prevent malicious ads from displaying on your browser. These often contain malware or phishing links. This adds an extra layer of security while browsing the web.

Security Awareness Training

Here at ITFIRM.COM, we can’t beat this drum too loudly or too often. Over 90% of data breaches are due to employee error. It’s time to ‘wise-up’ your staff to be able to spot and deal with even the newest of threats.

Ongoing Security Awareness Training is essential. This includes phishing simulations and best practices for device and data security. Teams should also be aware of any new security protocols.

Incident Response Plan (IRP)

Instituting an Incident Response Plan (IRP) is essential, as we mentioned above. This ensures that all employees know what steps to take in the event of a security breach. This should include:

Reporting procedures

Mitigation steps

Contact information for the IT support team

Personal Responsibility and Vigilance  

Personal Devices

Whether they use them for business or not, every employee should maintain good digital hygiene on their personal devices. If they can read their work emails from their smartphone, it must be protected. This includes regular backups and secure configurations. They should also separate personal and professional activities where possible.

Be Aware of Social Engineering

Emotions are the key here. Social engineering attacks exploit emotions to gain access to systems and data. Employees need to be aware of common tactics, such as pretexting and baiting. Maintaining a healthy scepticism can prevent falling victim to these attacks.