IT security at home office; Are you aware of the security threats?

Due to the ongoing pandemic, many people have to work from home. When employees work with the company's solutions outside the office, a number of security threats may arise  - often because the leaders have not had enough focus on security training. 

The authorities warned early in the pandemic that we would see an increase in data attacks. Unfortunately, technology alone cannot stop the attacks. Most IT security breaches are related to the users. Therefore, it is especially important to educate your employees about a good security culture.

Phishing Attacks

One of the things we have seen the most in the past year is phishing attacks against companies. There has been a significant increase, where attackers often exploit the fear associated with the pandemic. Working from home means we do not show the same caution as we would at a desk in the office. More people are at home with their children and other family members, and they often open emails in situations where their minds are elsewhere. Attackers often pose as government officials or health authorities and try to extract information that can lead further into the company's databases. When you read emails in a situation where a lot is happening around you, it is easy to click on links before you understand what kind of email you have received. Therefore, it is very important to be extra vigilant now - especially when you receive emails from an unknown sender. 

CEO Fraud

Attackers have not only posed as public figures or companies but have also attempted a type of scam known as CEO fraud. In this type of fraud, the sender pretends to be the CEO or general manager of the company. In the emails, they often ask for help to purchase something online or provide sensitive information. 

There are various tools that can stop these types of emails. We at Procano can offer an AI-based Anti-Phishing protection as a solution. 

If you receive a suspicious email on your work email, we recommend notifying your immediate supervisor. This will both increase knowledge among your colleagues and make them more aware of these attacks. 

Secure Network

Now that most people are working from home, many feel the need to change their environment and therefore take an hour at a café, a library, or other similar locations. It is important to be cautious of the network you are connected to. Many are not aware that several hackers exploit open networks. 

Devices that have previously been connected to a wireless network will automatically search for the same network again. Hackers often create copies of wireless networks that you find in public places. They do this so that your device recognizes the copy of the network and connects your device to it. Once you are connected to the network, the hacker has access to your data. It is very easy to be lured into such a situation.

VPN for the Company's Network

As a leader in a company, it is important to think about the security of company information at home. By setting up an encrypted tunnel between your home office and the company's network, a so-called VPN, the security for the company is guaranteed. This way, secure access to the company's data and applications is achieved. 

The company can also set up a secondary point, a so-called DNS protection, where all traffic from the PC is routed through a central server. This server will monitor where you are going to protect the traffic even at home. 

Updated Equipment

Are you among those who click “update later” when your Mac or PC wants to update? You should not do this. It is important to follow the security updates that come from the vendor, both for the operating system and software. The updates may contain a fix for a previous security vulnerability.

Do Not Download Unknown Software

If you let your children download unknown games or apps on your work PC, it can pose a significant risk to the company. The games or apps may contain malicious software or provide criminals access to the company's solutions.

Finally, the most important tip is to think twice: Stop - Think - Investigate before you click.

Does your company need assistance with IT security? We at Procano have extensive and solid expertise in the field.

Contact us for a review of your IT security.