Schools are closing, cultural and sports events are being canceled, employers are sending employees to the home office. In particular, the latter measure hides an inconspicuous threat that we do not even realize during normal working days when there is no pandemic around us – remote access to school, and corporate networks can be a gateway for cybercriminals. They do not stop at anything and take our unpreparedness as their opportunity. Many employees are used to the protection provided by the company or school network, and some will use remote access for the first time.
So What Do You Need To Make Sure Your Connection Is Secure?
Working out or studying from home for the first time can be daunting, especially for those who don’t have the IT support they’re used to. Connecting remotely to school or work networks offers flexibility in where and how we work, but it can also pose potential security risks.
“We recommend that organizations be especially vigilant at this time and ensure that those who use remote access are also vigilant. Organizations should also have clear communication with employees so that they are aware of the risks and do everything in their power to ensure remote access for people who isolate or connect from home. In addition to the increase in teleworking, we have also captured the activities of cybercriminals who try to feed on the virus and hide malicious files in disease-related documents. In this opportunistic approach of criminals associated with changes in work habits, it is reasonable for companies to be extremely vigilant.
Recommendations For Home Users
Kaspersky recommends to all those who use remote access:
- Protect all devices with a trusted Internet security product, including mobile devices.
- Always update your operating systems and applications as soon as updates are available.
- Only use apps from trusted sources, such as Google Play, App Store, or use a trusted educational portal or those provided by your workplace. Educational institution.
- Use only trusted networks for online activities. If you need to be online outside your network, secure your connection using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
- Always enter web addresses yourself. Do not click on links or attachments or reply to unsolicited messages.
- Back up your data regularly to an offline external drive to avoid losing your work.
Recommendations For Companies And Network Administrators
Kaspersky recommendations for companies and those who manage remote networks:
- Provide employees with a VPN to securely connect to the corporate network.
- All corporate devices, including mobile phones and laptops, should be protected by the appropriate security software, including mobile devices (e.g., there should be the ability to erase data from devices that are reported lost or stolen, as well as the separation of personal and work data and which applications can be installed).
- Always update operating systems and applications.
- Restrict access rights for people joining the corporate network.
- Ensure employees are aware of the dangers and risks when responding to unsolicited messages.