Working remotely from home comes with many benefits, including flexibility and convenience. However, it also presents potential security risks that can compromise sensitive company data. This user guide is designed to help you keep your home office secure and protect your work-related activities.
Read the Security Policies:
Make sure to read and understand your organisation's policies on remote work and security. These policies provide guidelines on how to access company data and resources safely. Stay up to date on any changes and seek help if you have any questions or concerns.
Don't Allow Family Members to Use Your Work Devices:
Your work devices, including laptops, tablets, and mobile phones, are intended for work-related activities only. Don't let your work computer become the family computer for personal use, as this could put your work data at risk. Set boundaries with your family members, and ensure that they understand the importance of keeping work devices separate.
Change Your Modem/Router's Login Credentials:
Changing the default login credentials on your router to a strong and unique password is an essential step in securing your home network. Default passwords are easy to guess, and leaving them unchanged can make it easier for attackers to gain access to your network and devices. Your modem or router should come with instructions on how to do this, or you can google the model number to find the user manual.
Change Your Home Wi-Fi Password:
The default password for your home Wi-Fi is unlikely to be secure. Changing it to a strong, unique password will help keep your network secure and prevent unauthorized access to your devices. Your modem or router should come with instructions on how to do this, or you can google the model number to find the user manual.
Use Your Organisation’s Virtual Private Network (VPN) If They Have One:
If your organisation provides a VPN, use it to access organisation resources and data. A VPN encrypts your traffic, making it more difficult for attackers to intercept your data. If you're unsure how to set up or use your organisation's VPN, contact your IT support team for guidance.
Never Leave Work Devices in Your Car:
Leaving your work devices in your car, even for a short time, can put them at risk of theft or damage. Always bring them inside with you and store them in a secure location. If you need to transport work devices, use a backpack or a briefcase that can be locked.
Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi:
Public Wi-Fi is often unsecured, which makes it easy for attackers to intercept your traffic and steal your data. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for work-related activities whenever possible. Instead, use your home Wi-Fi network or your organisation's VPN to access company data and resources.
Don't Install Non-Work Software on Organisation Devices:
Installing non-work software on your work devices can compromise their security and expose them to malware. Stick to using only approved software for work-related activities. If you need additional software for work, contact your IT support team for guidance.
Securing your home office is essential for protecting your work-related activities and sensitive company data. By following the tips outlined in this user guide, you can help ensure that your home office is a secure and productive environment for remote work. If you have any questions or concerns about securing your home office, don't hesitate to contact your IT support team for guidance.
