Data security should be a critical priority for all organisations. Even a moment of complacency and not following proper procedures can lead to a serious breach. This was clear in the recent report that a MoD official left their laptop open on a train. This led to confidential Government information being leaked. The MoD unit who managed Afghan evacuation applications was also linked to multiple other data breaches, including misdirected emails, insecure systems, and unauthorised access.
Dame Chi Onwurah, chair of the science, innovation and technology committee, recently held a session addressing the data security issues in the House of Commons and said: “When I saw some of the details of the Ministry of Defence data breach, I was astounded that that could be part of government data practice. This is not an individual failure. Whoever was responsible for it, it was an institutional failure.”
The Importance of Protecting Data when Working Remotely
Remote working has become a major part of how organisations operate. This case has led many businesses to reconsider how they emphasise and maintain strong data security protocols.
Working outside a secure office increases the risk of cyberattacks, data breaches, and lost or stolen devices. As part of GDPR rules, you are required to protect personal data. If not taken seriously when working outside the office, this will not only have a negative impact on your reputation, you may also face legal action.
How to Protect Data Remotely
To prevent these risks from becoming a serious problem for your business, consider putting the following measures in place:
VPN
Encouraging staff to connect to a company network through a secure VPN will encrypt data while working remotely and authenticate them.
Secure Passwords and Encryption
Protecting your data more securely can be as simple as setting up stronger passwords and enabling two-factor authentication. Encourage your team to use unique passwords, mix letter, symbols, and numbers and avoid simple options such as ‘1234’. Encrypting data will also give an extra layer of protection and will help avoid information getting in to the wrong hands.
Secure file sharing
Secure file sharing is vital when working remotely to protect sensitive company data from unauthorised access or breaches. It also ensures employees can collaborate safely and efficiently without compromising confidentiality. Therefore, sharing sensitive documents through email should be avoided at all costs. This should be done through a secure folder through a company-provided secure channel.
Data Security Training
Data security training is an opportunity to educate staff on digital threats, help them to understand the types of threats out there, and how to avoid them. Our IT experts can deliver training programmes that covers the basics such as:
- Understanding the latest cyber threats
- How to protect personal and company information
- The importance of strong passwords and multi-factor authentication
- Software updates and why it’s important to do this on a regular basis
Regularly update Software
You must ensure the latest software updates have been completed on all devices. Installing important updates such as antivirus software will give you the best chance to defend against new threats.
Clearly outline data security procedures
Set out clear security procedures, and regularly share this with your team. Remind them of the risks and encourage them to prioritise compliance over convenience. This means avoiding using your company video conferencing system for a personal call or sending emails through a personal email account.
Data Security with Upstream IT
Our expertise in Data Security can help you to protect your business, especially if your staff work remotely. We offer specialist consultancy services across all areas of IT including network design, internet security, cloud solutions, server systems, hardware, applications, and operating systems.
Whether you are looking for us to deliver data security training or long-term support, our IT consultants are always here to help. We offer reliable, expert advice whenever you need it.
Our experienced team provides tailored IT Support to meet your needs.
Contact Us
Contact us today on 0131 513 9971 or info@upstreamit.co.uk to start your journey to secure data.
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