Coronavirus, Self-Isolation and Work From Home Security

As governments across the world struggle to contain the COVID-19 virus, businesses are being asked to allow their employees to work from home. For many people this will be the first time they have ever been able to work remotely – which could cause some serious IT security headaches for their employers.

Cybercriminals are aware of the rush – and the potential for mistakes that could let them break in. Which means you have a part to play in protecting your employer. Here’s a few tips to get you started.

Email malware is set to increase

Email is already essential for business communications. For many remote workers it will become the primary way by which they share information with colleagues.

In the coming weeks you should expect to see an uptick in fraudulent emails. Many will have malware attached, waiting to infect your computer. Some will be subtle phishing messages, designed to steal your passwords and other sensitive information.

Malware is particularly dangerous for home workers as most people will be using their own computers. These machines will not have the same security safeguards as the one they use in the office, making them less secure. If your home PC is compromised, hackers can use them to attack your company network from the inside.

You can do your part to prevent malware problems by learning to spot the signs of a fraudulent email. You should also ensure that you have an effective anti-malware app installed on your computer – download a free Panda Dome trial here.

Social engineering attacks

Because the rush to adopt remote working has been so rushed, many employees will not have been properly trained in the usual protocols and procedures that protect the business. This makes them more vulnerable to social engineering attacks.

Social engineering is very low-tech – and very effective. Typically a scammer will make contact by phone or email, pretending to be a colleague, like an IT helpdesk operator. They will then ask for sensitive information, like logon credentials which allow them to break into the company network.

You should always take a moment to think whenever someone asks you for sensitive information. No matter how much the caller tries to pressure you, if you are in any doubt, do not give them the details. Your employer would rather you play it safe and create a delay than give cybercriminals easy access to company resources.

Take it slow

Getting used to remote working may take a little longer than expected. You are effectively on your own, doing many of the IT security tasks that are normally handled by the IT department. In these unusual circumstances it will take you a while to achieve maximum productivity.

In the meantime you must ensure that you are working as safely as possible. Keep an eye on the Panda Security blog for more tips and tricks in the coming weeks.