Managing Common Cybersecurity Risks For In-Office, Hybrid & Remote Workers

Over the past few years, remote work has become increasingly prevalent, resulting in significant changes to company operations. Although many organizations have been able to adjust to this new way of working, some employees have returned to working in the office after stay-at-home orders were lifted, while others have opted for a hybrid model that combines in-office work with remote work. Regardless of where employees work, one issue that remains constant is the risk of cyberattacks. So, what can companies do to effectively manage cybersecurity risks? The following are two examples of cybersecurity vulnerabilities that exist for both remote and in-office workers, as well as ways organizations can address them.

One of the most common methods that cybercriminals use to infiltrate companies is phishing. This is a technique whereby a malicious attachment or link to a fake website is sent via email. These emails can be very convincing and often trick employees into downloading malicious software or divulging sensitive information, such as their login credentials. Once the cybercriminal has gained access to the system, they can deliver malware infections or otherwise compromise the system. These attacks have become more successful in recent times, in part due to the changes in working situations and lack of preparation during the transition.

Thankfully, companies can mitigate the risk of phishing attacks by providing ongoing training to their employees on how to detect and avoid these scams, regardless of whether they work remotely or in-office. Regular reminders should be sent to employees who use personal devices or software when accessing corporate networks to ensure that they are routinely updating their cybersecurity measures. Additionally, new hires should be made aware of previous attempts and what to do if they encounter suspicious material.

Another area of vulnerability is related to weak and unsecured passwords, which pose a significant threat to company operations, whether employees are working remotely or in-office. Cybercriminals are aware that remote workers may be more lax in their security practices, and as such, organizations should establish policies regarding password strength and management, such as prohibiting the use of repeated passwords and personal information within credentials. Furthermore, organizations should consider implementing security solutions, such as an Authentication-as-a-Service platform, to bolster network security and protect against unauthorized access.

It’s important for company leaders and IT professionals to recognize that hackers are already turning their attention to hybrid workers and those returning to the office. By identifying potential vulnerabilities within the organization and staying informed about the latest threats, it is possible to stay ahead of these adversaries.

For a more in-depth comparison of cybersecurity risks for remote and in-office work, please refer to the accompanying resource.

Cybersecurity from Authx, a sso authentication provider

Brian Farrell is a coach, helping clients achieve their personal and professional goals. He's also the creator of the "QA2 Method". For more about Brian, visit bfarrell.com