How secure are remote workers?
In a recent study, OpenVPN reported that 90% of IT professionals believe remote workers are not secure. At the same time, over 70% think remote staff poses a greater risk than onsite employees. So, the good news is that experts are actually acknowledging remote work security risks and this is the first step towards addressing the issue.
How can remote access technologies improve employee security awareness?
With multiple secure remote access technologies in place, cybersecurity professionals can maintain a secure web browsing experience that minimizes network exposure to potential security threats or malicious actors. Employee security awareness remains an organization’s biggest security challenge.
What are the disadvantages of remote access client devices?
Remote Access Vulnerabilities Remote access client devices generally have weaker protection than standard client devices Many devices not managed by the enterprise No enterprise firewalls, antivirus, etc. Lack of physical security controls Remote access client devices may be used in hostile environments but not configured for them
Why can’t security teams detect advanced threats from remote users?
However, many security teams lack visibility into remote user activity and into east-west traffic inside the network, so they can’t detect advanced threats from remote users or identify an attacker jumping from a compromised user’s machine to hosts inside the network.
Why Is Secure Remote Access Important?
What is remote desktop access?
Why do people use VPNs?
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What are the security risks associated with remote access?
Many remote access security risks abound, but below is a list of the ones that jump out.Lack of information. ... Password sharing. ... Software. ... Personal devices. ... Patching. ... Vulnerable backups. ... Device hygiene. ... Phishing attacks.
Which of the following are the physical IT security risks of working remotely?
Remote Work Security Risks for EmployeesAccessing Sensitive Data Through Unsafe Wi-Fi Networks. ... Using Personal Devices for Work. ... Ignoring Basic Physical Security Practices in Public Places. ... Email Scams. ... Security Controls Are Weaker. ... Cyberattacks on Remote-working Infrastructure. ... Multi-factor authentication. ... Password Manager.More items...•
How do you keep security when employees work remotely?
Remote Work Security Best PracticesEstablish and enforce a data security policy. ... Equip your employees with the right tools and technology. ... Frequently update your network security systems. ... Regulate the use of personal devices. ... Institute a “Zero Trust” approach. ... Make sure all internet connections are secure.More items...
What is the largest threat to working remotely?
Top Security Risks of Remote WorkingGDPR and remote working. Remote work means an employer has less control and visibility over employees' data security. ... Phishing Emails. ... Weak Passwords. ... Unsecured Home Devices. ... Unencrypted File Sharing. ... Open Home WiFi Networks.
What is the greatest risk that remote access poses to an organization?
The overriding risk of remote access services and software is a hacker gaining deeper access to your organization, exposing you to a host of IT security threats. Once they gain privileged access to your system, it will be difficult to prevent data loss, prevent phishing, protect against ransomware, etc.
Which of these is the most important security precaution you should take when working remotely?
Here are the top remote working security tips to ensure you and your staff are working from home safely.Use antivirus and internet security software at home. ... Keep family members away from work devices. ... Invest in a sliding webcam cover. ... Use a VPN. ... Use a centralized storage solution. ... Secure your home Wi-Fi.More items...
Why is physical security so important to organizations?
Why physical security is important. At its core, physical security is about keeping your facilities, people and assets safe from real-world threats. It includes physical deterrence, detection of intruders, and responding to those threats.
What are examples of remote user security policy best practices?
Best Practices For Remote Access SecurityEnable encryption. ... Install antivirus and anti-malware. ... Ensure all operating systems and applications are up to date. ... Enforce a strong password policy. ... Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) ... Use Virtual Private Network (VPN) ... Use two-factor authentication.More items...•
Why is cybersecurity important for remote employees?
Not only does cybersecurity training protect the company, but it also gives employees the knowledge needed to protect themselves inside and outside of the workplace. Identity theft is one of the most common cyber-attacks among remote workers.
What are the risks of working online?
Top 8 cyber security risks of working from homeUnsecure home network connection. ... More use of online tools. ... Employees can't spot scams. ... Staff lose sight of security concerns. ... Weak passwords. ... Phishing and ransomware. ... Unencrypted file sharing. ... Personal devices.
Does working remote increases cyber security risks?
One of the most significant security risks of remote working is using personal devices to connect to corporate networks and systems. These devices often do not have the same level of cybersecurity as a corporate computer or laptop.
Which of the following is a physical access control?
Common physical access control examples of access points include security gates, turnstiles and door locks. A secure space can have a single access point, like an office inside a larger complex, or many access points.
Which of the following resources can be used to identify specific details about vulnerabilities?
The correct option is CVE national database.
How are USB flash drives a security risk select one?
Q3)How are USB flash drives a security risk? They contain wireless antennas. They have a controller that can be infected. They cannot be encrypted.
Which of the following are examples of technical control?
Firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), encryption, and identification and authentication mechanisms are examples of technical controls.
What are the essential security clauses that should be included in your remote work policy?
Below are the essential security clauses that should be included in your remote work policy: Clearly define which positions are eligible for remote work. Be transparent towards your employees. Everyone should be aware which job functions are allowed to work remotely are which are not due to security reasons.
What are the tools that both regular and remote employees should have installed on their devices?
Here are the fundamental tools that both your regular and remote employees should have installed on their devices: 1. Multi-factor authentication. This type of authentication will act as an additional layer of security on top of your remote employees’ accounts.
What is the first step in remote work?
The first step is to create a security policy specifically designed for remote workers. 93% of the IT professional interviewed in the OpenVPN study already have a formalized remote work policy in place and this is quite impressive and reassuring.
Why do cybercriminals crack passwords?
Cybercriminals are aware that human error is easier to exploit than trying to get past an advanced security solution, which is why they will attempt to crack account passwords in order to access private company data.
Why is a firewall important?
A firewall will prevent unauthorized access to and from the network, further strengthening the security of your employees’ devices. What firewalls do is monitor network traffic, at the same time finding and blocking unwanted traffic. So, firewalls are important tools that will protect your remote endpoints against various cyber threats.
What is the biggest threat to network security?
Your employees who work remotely can become the biggest threat to your network’s security. By unknowingly following cybersecurity worst practices, employees can actually be the ones giving threat actors access to your network and your company’s private information.
Do companies have remote workers?
Companies may have a fully remote workforce, people who work from home from time to time, or employees who frequently go on business trips. And without a doubt, it’s more difficult to take care of their security than it is to manage your on-site endpoints.
What should security teams do if on-premises network and email security mechanisms are no longer available?
Recommendation: If some on-premises network and email security mechanisms are no longer available, security teams should double down on educating users to identify phishing attempts and to choose strong, unique passwords, encouraging the use of a password manager. They should also implement client certificates and multi-factor authentication in order to prevent attackers from gaining access through unsecured devices.
Why is it important to enforce access based on user identity?
Recommendation: It’s critical that companies enforce access based on user identity, allowing specific groups access to only what they need to get their jobs done, and expanding access from there on an as-needed basis.
Why do companies use VPNs?
Historically, many companies deployed VPNs primarily for technical people needing access to critical technology assets. Not so much the case anymore – VPNs are often encouraged for all users as a more secure connection than home or public networks.
What are the risks of using a VPN?
Here are five top security risks that teams must deal with, as well as technology and user education best practices to keep users and data safe: 1. Weak remote access policies. Once attackers get access to a virtual private network (VPN), they can often penetrate the rest of the network like a hot knife through butter.
What is XDR in security?
Recommendation: Rather than invest in point solutions, consider security platforms that maximize integration between systems, limiting the amount of switching between tools and providing visibility into all data – including remote user activity. Extended detection and response (XDR) not only protects endpoints, but also applies analytics across all your data to find threats like unusual access or lateral movement, and simplifies investigations by stitching together data and identifying the root cause.
Why is cybersecurity important in remote work?
Bringing cybersecurity to the top-of-mind for your remote workforce is important in successfully educating employees on the new risks their work environment presents. Conducting training for security best practices, as well as discussing your organization’s cybersecurity standing and vulnerabilities with the entire workforce are both potential ways to combat network threats.
What should be protected using multi-factor authentication?
Any machine that is capable of connecting to your network should be protected using multi-factor authentication, automatic session timeouts, and access monitoring to prevent unauthorized users from getting into the data, even if they have the device.
What is unauthorized software?
Unauthorized software is a common entrypoint for ransomware attacks. Monitoring software and integrations is very important, especially when workers are at home with others who may be installing software on their devices.
How to prevent unauthorized app use?
Making proactive decisions about your tech stack can go a long way toward preventing unauthorized app use. For example, by making a secure video chatting or collaboration tool available, you reduce the likelihood of employees going out of their way to install their own (less secure) solutions.
What is the first step in mitigating risk throughout your attack surface?
Documenting policies, protocols, and authorized software is the first step in mitigating risk throughout your attack surface. From there, you can start to enforce changes that will improve security performance across your expanding digital ecosystem. 2. Unsecured networks.
Is IT security playing catch up?
IT security teams are still playing catchup when it comes to securing the remote workforce. We’re committed to making their jobs easier through our BitSight Security Ratings solutions for monitoring, managing, and mitigating cyber risks. Read our research to learn more about the unique risks of work from home-remote office networks and what to do next to mitigate the latest security threats.
Is social engineering easier than phishing?
Social engineering has a new dimension now that employees aren’t in the same physical space. It’s much easier to impersonate a colleague when they’re not sitting next to you, and in the current stressful environment some emotionally driven phishing emails are working better now than ever before.
What are the risks of remote access?
Many potential risks accompany vendor remote access —from introducing malware into your systems to technical and business dangers.
Why is remote access important?
It is essential for these individuals to have safe, anytime, anywhere access to corporate networks and services.
What is a PAM solution?
An effective PAM solution helps defend against such remote access threats. Privilege management allows you to grant and remove administrative privileges to individuals for any system. At the very least, the PAM solution can monitor back-end access logins and alert administrators about privileged sessions that do not comply with access policies (e.g., why is the HVAC vendor logging into the Point of Sale (POS) system?).
What percentage of Verizon network intrusions exploited weak or stolen credentials?
According to Verizon’s Data Breach Investigation Report, “76 percent of network intrusions exploited weak or stolen credentials.” Since vendors don’t need constant access to your network, they often use one remote access tool license and share generic logins and passwords across technicians. This makes the credentials easy for hackers to guess. What’s more, the vendor’s ex-employees often retain remote access to your systems.
How many factor authentication is required for a network?
For optimum protection and a clean audit trail, require everyone who accesses your network to use unique credentials and at least two-factor authentication. This will make it harder for a hacker to successfully use stolen vendor credentials.
What is the Telework Enhancement Act?
The Telework Enhancement Act requires federal agencies to have policies to govern and promote teleworking. Between teleworkers and vendors, we are challenged to enable secure access for increasingly large and diverse workforces, while simultaneously dealing with smaller budgets and tightening compliance mandates.
Why add layered authentication through MFA?
Add layered authentication through MFA to reduce account sharing among third parties. Some of the most significant data breaches of the last decade, like Target and Home Depot, could have been stopped with this simple step.
What is physical security?
Physical security measures are designed to protect buildings, and safeguard the equipment inside. In short, they keep unwanted people out, and give access to authorized individuals. While network and cybersecurity are important, preventing physical security breaches and threats is key to keeping your technology and data safe, as well as any staff or faculty that have access to the building. Without physical security plans in place, your office or building is left open to criminal activity, and liable for types of physical security threats including theft, vandalism, fraud, and even accidents.
How to identify potential security risks?
To locate potential risk areas in your facility, first consider all your public entry points. Where people can enter and exit your facility, there is always a potential security risk. Baseline physical security control procedures, such as proper access control measures at key entry points, will help you manage who is coming and going, and can alert you to potential intrusions. Once inside your facility, you’ll want to look at how data or sensitive information is being secured and stored. Do you have server rooms that need added protection? Are desktop computers locked down and kept secure when nobody is in the office? Do employees have laptops that they take home with them each night? Even USB drives or a disgruntled employee can become major threats in the workplace. List out all the potential risks in your building, and then design security plans to mitigate the potential for criminal activity.
How do physical security policies impact cybersecurity and data protection?
Today’s security systems are smarter than ever, with IoT paving the way for connected and integrated technology across organizations. However, cloud-based platforms, remote and distributed workforces, and mobile technology also bring increased risk. In fact, 97% of IT leaders are concerned about a data breach in their organization. But cybersecurity on its own isn’t enough to protect an organization. That’s why a complete physical security plan also takes cybersecurity into consideration.
How to improve physical security in an office?
Education is a key component of successful physical security control for offices. If employees, tenants, and administrators don’t understand the new physical security policy changes, your system will be less effective at preventing intrusions and breaches. Once your system is set up, plan on rigorous testing for all the various types of physical security threats your building may encounter. You should run security and emergency drills with your on-site teams, and also test any remote features of your physical security controls to make sure administrators have the access they need to activate lockdown plans, trigger unlock requests, and add or revoke user access. Communicating physical security control procedures with staff and daily end users will not only help employees feel safer at work, it can also deter types of physical security threats like collusion, employee theft, or fraudulent behavior if they know there are systems in place designed to detect criminal activity.
Why is education important in physical security?
If employees, tenants, and administrators don’t understand the new physical security policy changes, your system will be less effective at preventing intrusions and breaches.
Why is detection important in security?
While it is impossible to prevent all intrusions or breaches, having the right tools in place to detect and deal with intrusions minimizes the disruption to your business in the long run.
Why is it important to migrate physical security to the cloud?
By migrating physical security components to the cloud, organizations have more flexibility. In terms of physical security, examples of that flexibility include being able to make adjustments to security systems on the fly. Changes to door schedules, access permissions, and credentials are instant with a cloud-based access control system, and the admin doesn’t need to be on the property. This is especially important for multi-site and enterprise organizations, who need to be able to access the physical security controls for every location, without having to travel.
Offboarding employees: Where does the data security risk lie?
Most of us are aware of the risks associated with hackers and bad agents from the outside trying to access your data. We’re familiar with best practices for password security, and how to avoid the kind of common pitfalls that come with handling sensitive data on a daily basis.
Create a foolproof checklist for employee offboarding
No matter what process you end up implementing, your offboarding strategy should be carefully planned and meticulously followed. By creating a checklist of steps for offboarding, you ensure that nothing is overlooked or forgotten, and risk can be mitigated accordingly.
Keeping concise IT inventories
Inventory keeping is an important best practice for any organization and is especially relevant when it comes to avoiding data security breach risks posed by ex-employees. You’ll need to gather all company assets from the former employee and use your current inventory list (you’ve got one of those, right?) to prevent overlooking anything.
Keep IT personnel in the loop
Data security breaches commonly result from poor communication between team members. By ensuring that all IT personnel are aware and fully informed of any upcoming terminations, they’ll be able to monitor any suspicious activity or unusual actions leading up to the departure date.
Deprovision data and account access immediately
One of the most important stages of employee onboarding is deprovision. You can, of course, do this manually. However, most security-conscious organisations now use management solution programs in order to save time and reduce the likelihood of human error and oversight.
Keep an eye on computer activities
It goes without saying that the days leading up to a termination are peak moments for data theft, especially if the employee knows that they are on their way out. Your IT department should be informed of the upcoming termination sooner rather than later and instructed to keep a close eye on all computer activities related to the employee.
Disgruntled employees: A very real threat for data security
Unhappy employees embittered by looming terminations present significant data security threats. It’s becoming less rare of an instance that they resort to data theft in order to exact revenge or hold influence over their former employers.
Why Is Secure Remote Access Important?
Secure remote access is important for three reasons: to safeguard and protect intellectual property; to increase employee productivity, and to enhance an organization’s competitive advantage. Organizations can confidently deliver on their current goals and innovate to achieve new ones when employees can work securely from everywhere.
What is remote desktop access?
Remote desktop access is an older and still popular method for accessing resources, typically on a corporate LAN. In this case, a user will connect to a physical or virtual computing instance located on the LAN. Popular examples include Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and Virtual Network Computing (VNC).
Why do people use VPNs?
Organizations, governments, and businesses of all sizes use VPNs for secure remote access to data center resources or corporate local area networks (LAN). Personal VPNs have also become widely popular as they keep users’ locations private, ...