Top 7 Cybersecurity Risks of Remote Work How to Address Them
Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent times. It provides flexibility and
convenience for employees. Additionally, telecommuting reduces office costs for
employers. Many also cite productivity benefits due to fewer distractions.Research shows a 56% reduction in unproductive time when working at home vs. the
office. 9
But there are some drawbacks to working outside the office. It’s crucial to be aware of the
cybersecurity risks that come with remote and hybrid work. Keeping an eye on device and
network security isn’t as easy. About 63% of businesses have experienced a data breach
due to remote employees.This news doesn’t mean that you must risk security to enjoy remote working. You can
strike a balance. Be aware of the cybersecurity concerns and address them to do this.Below, we'll discuss some of the top cybersecurity risks associated with remote work. As
well as provide practical tips on how employees and employers can address them.
Remote Work Risks & Mitigation1. Weak Passwords and Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication
Using weak passwords puts accounts at risk of a breach. Also, reusing passwords across
several accounts is a big cybersecurity risk. Remote workers often access company
systems, databases, and sensitive information from various devices.To mitigate this risk, you should create strong and unique passwords for each account.
Additionally, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. This adds an
extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification. Employers can set up access management systems. These solutions help automate the
authentication process. They can also deploy safeguards like contextual MFA.2. Unsecured Wi-Fi NetworksWorking remotely often means connecting to different Wi-Fi networks. Such as public
hotspots or home networks that may not be adequately secured. These unsecured
networks can expose your sensitive data to hackers. To protect company data, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Turn on the VPN when
connecting to public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks. A VPN encrypts the internet traffic. This
ensures that data remains secure even on untrusted networks.3. Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks remain a prevalent threat, and remote workers are particularly vulnerable.
Attackers may send deceptive emails or messages. These messages trick users into
revealing their login credentials or downloading malicious attachments.To defend against phishing attacks, be cautious when opening emails. Especially those
from unknown sources. Avoid clicking on suspicious links. Verify the sender's email
address. Also, be wary of any requests for sensitive information. If in doubt, contact your IT support
team to confirm the legitimacy of the communication. 4. Insecure Home Network Devices
Many remote workers use Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These include smart speakers,
home security systems, and thermostats. These devices can introduce vulnerabilities to
your home network if not properly secured.To address this risk, make sure to change the default passwords on your IoT devices. Also,
keep them updated with the latest firmware. Consider creating a separate network for your
IoT devices. A "guest" network can isolate them from your work devices and data.Employers can improve security for remote teams using an endpoint device manager.
Such as Microsoft Intune, or similar. These devices make it easier to manage security
across many employee devices.5. Lack of Security Updates
Regularly updating your devices and software is crucial for maintaining strong
cybersecurity. Remote workers may neglect these updates due to busy schedules or
limited awareness. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain
unauthorized access to systems.To mitigate this risk, enable automatic updates on devices and software whenever
possible. Regularly check for updates. Install them promptly to ensure you have the latest
security patches.6. Data Backup and Recovery
Remote workers generate and handle a significant amount of data. The loss or corruption
of this data can be devastating. Implementing a robust data backup and recovery plan is
essential. Back up your important files to a secure cloud storage service or an external hard drive.
This ensures that if a hacker compromises a device, your data remains safe and can be
easily restored.7. Insufficient Employee TrainingRemote workers should receive proper cybersecurity training. It helps them to understand
security risks and best practices. Unfortunately, many companies neglect this aspect of
cybersecurity. This leaves employees unaware of the potential threats they may encounter.Organizations must provide comprehensive cybersecurity training to remote workers. This
training should cover topics such as: • Identifying phishing emails • Creating strong passwords
11 • Recognizing suspicious online behavior • New forms of phishing (such as SMS-based “smishing”)Get Help Improving Remote Team Cybersecurity
Remote work offers many benefits. But it's important to remain vigilant about the
associated cybersecurity risks. Address these risks head-on and put in place the suggested
measures. If you’d like some help, just let us know. Give us a call today to schedule a chat.Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
Have You Tried Microsoft Universal Print Learn What It Can Do for You
In today's digital workplace, printing remains an essential function. This is true for just
about all businesses. But keeping up with your print infrastructure can be a time-consuming task. One printer down can mean work comes to a standstill. Another issue is keeping up with all those printer drivers. If firmware updates aren’t done,
vulnerabilities exist. One unprotected printer can cause an entire network malware
infection.Microsoft has come up with an answer to streamline print management. This solution is
called Microsoft Universal Print. It offers a modern answer to age-old print problems. Looking to improve how you handle document printing? Do you wish you could avoid
printer problems? Below, we’ll explore the benefits and features of Microsoft Universal
Print. We’ll also help you discover how it can enhance your printing environment.What Can Microsoft Universal Print Do for You? Microsoft Universal Print leverages the power of Microsoft 365 and Azure. It eliminates the
need for complex on-premises print infrastructure. Here are some of the ways that it can
improve your document handling.
Simplifying Print Management
Microsoft Universal Print eliminates the need for on-premises print servers. Print
management becomes more simplified and all in one place. Organizations can centrally
manage their printing needs from the cloud.This ease of use removes the need for complex print server configurations. As well as
driver installations and print queue management. This results in significant time and cost
savings.
Seamless Integration with Microsoft 365
A key advantage of Universal Print is its seamless integration with Microsoft 365. It works
in tandem with Azure Active Directory. This ensures a secure and authenticated printing
experience for users.This integration allows users to print from any device, whether it's a Windows PC, Mac, or
mobile device. There’s no need for complex setup or driver installations. It simplifies the
printing process. It also enhances productivity for employees working across different
platforms.
Flexibility and Scalability
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With Microsoft Universal Print, organizations gain flexibility and scalability in their print
activities. It supports both modern and legacy printers. This allows businesses to leverage
their existing printer fleet.Universal Print enables easy connectivity. This is true whether it's a local printer or a
network printer. As well as management through the cloud. Additionally, it offers
centralized control and monitoring of printers. This makes it effortless to scale up or down
based on business needs.
Streamlined Printer Deployment
Deploying printers across an organization can be a time-consuming task. Microsoft
Universal Print simplifies this process. It does this by providing a centralized portal for
printer management.Administrators can easily add and configure printers. They can assign them to specific
users or groups. As well as manage printer settings from a single interface. This eliminates
the need for manual configuration on individual devices. Which can be very time-consuming and fraught with issues. It also ensures a consistent printing experience across
the organization.
Enhanced Security and Compliance
A big benefit of using Microsoft Universal Print is its security capabilities. Print security is a
critical concern for businesses, especially in today's threat landscape. Microsoft Universal
Print enhances security by leveraging Azure Active Directory. It’s used for authentication
and access control.It also supports secure print release. This means that sensitive documents are only printed
under certain circumstances. Namely, when the authorized user is physically present at the
printer.Moreover, Universal Print integrates with Microsoft Endpoint Manager. This gives
organizations even more capabilities. They can enforce security policies and manage print-related settings from a centralized location.
Insights and Analytics
Understanding print usage and optimizing print infrastructure is essential for efficient cost
management. Microsoft Universal Print provides insights and analytics that help
organizations gain visibility. They’re able to see print usage patterns. As well as track
printing costs and identify opportunities for optimization. With detailed reporting and analytics, businesses can make informed decisions. Reporting
enables better print resource allocation. As well as the implementation of strategies to
reduce printing costs.
11
Is Microsoft Universal Print for You?
Microsoft Universal Print offers a modern and efficient approach to print management. It
streamlines the printing experience for organizations. It also eliminates the need for
complex on-premises print infrastructure. There are also important benefits from the boost
in security.But is it for you?We can help you understand the full capabilities of Microsoft Universal Print. Including the
costs versus the benefits. Whether the solution is for you will depend on your printing
needs. Extra factors to consider will be how often you print and your number of endpoints.
Get Cost-Efficient Technology Answers
It’s not easy to make software decisions on your own. That’s why we’re here to help! We
can sit down with you to discuss your current infrastructure. We’ll help you evaluate
solutions, like Microsoft Universal Print. Then, we’ll tell you straight up what makes the
most sense for you.Give us a call today to chat about your technology needs.Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
Handy Checklist for Handling Technology Safely During a Home or Office Move
Moving can be a chaotic and stressful time. Especially when it comes to handling your
valuable technology. Whether you're relocating your home or office, it's essential to take
extra care. Both with fragile items and when packing and moving your devices and other
tech items. To help you navigate this process smoothly, we've put together a handy checklist. Use this
to help ensure your technology remains safe and sound during the move.Back Up EverythingBefore you start disassembling your technology, make sure to back up all your data.
Create copies of important files, documents, photos, and any other irreplaceable
information. You can either use an external hard drive, cloud storage, or both. By doing
this, you'll have peace of mind knowing you've protected your data. Should something
unfortunate happen during the move, your files will be intact.
Organize and Label Cables
We all know the struggle of untangling a mess of cables. This is true especially when
you're eager to set up your devices in the new place. To avoid this headache, take the time
to organize and label your cables before packing.
Use cable ties or twist ties to keep them neatly bundled. Attach labels to identify which
cable belongs to which device. Trust us; this simple step will save you a lot of time and
frustration later on.
Pack Devices Carefully
When packing your devices, opt for their original boxes whenever possible. If you have the
storage space, this is why you don’t want to toss those out. The original packaging is
designed to provide the best protection during shipping. There are usually specific
compartments to secure each component. If you don't have the original boxes, use sturdy cardboard boxes. Wrap each device in
bubble wrap or anti-static foam to prevent any damage. Fill any empty spaces in the boxes
with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to ensure a snug fit. Remove Ink Cartridges and Batteries It might seem easier to just load up your printers “as is” to move them. But that’s not a
good idea. For printers and devices that use ink, it's crucial to remove those cartridges. Do
this before packing the devices. Ink cartridges can leak or dry out during transit. This can
cause a mess or render them useless.Also, remove batteries from devices such as laptops, cameras, or remote controls. This
precaution prevents accidental power-on and potential damage during the move. Pack the
cartridges and batteries separately in sealed bags and label them.
Take Photos of Cable Connections
Before unplugging cables from your devices, snap a quick photo of the connections. This
visual reference will be very helpful when it's time to set up everything at your new
location. You won't have to worry about remembering which cable goes where. And won’t
need to spend hours trying to figure it out. Simply refer to the photos, and you'll be back
up and running in no time!
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Pack Your Wi-Fi Equipment Separately
Reconnecting to the internet is usually one of the first things done for both home and
office moves. To make it easier, pack all your Wi-Fi network equipment separately from
other items.
This includes your modem, router, ethernet cables, and other network connectors. Clearly
label the box “Wi-Fi Equipment” so you’ll know right where to go first to get online.
Secure Fragile Screens
Are you moving devices with delicate screens, such as TVs or monitors? Then take extra
precautions to protect them from scratches and cracks.Place a soft cloth or microfiber cloth over the screen. Secure it with elastic bands or tape.
This barrier will shield the screen from any accidental contact during transit. Additionally,
make sure to pack these items in a vertical position to reduce the risk of damage.
Inform the Movers about Fragile Items
When enlisting professional movers, be sure to be clear about your technology. Inform
them about the fragile nature of your devices and other tech items. Clearly label the boxes
containing your valuable devices as "fragile." Provide any necessary instructions to handle
them with care. By communicating your concerns upfront, you reduce the chances of
accidents while moving.
Test Everything After the Move
If you’ve moved offices, you don’t want to find out about problems on a busy Monday
morning. Once you've moved your technology and reconnected cables, turn your devices
on. Test them to ensure they work as usual and weren’t damaged. Something may not look damaged on the outside. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t
internal damage. You want to know this upfront so you can file a claim and call in an IT
service professional to help.
Need Help with a Safe Technology Move?
Moving can be a hectic and challenging process, especially when moving office tech. But
with the right approach, you can ensure the safety of your devices from point A to point B.
Need help from the pros to move your technology securely? Give us a call today to
schedule a chat.Article used with permission from The Technology Press
Do You Still Believe in These Common Tech Myths
In today's digital age, technology plays a significant role in our lives. But along with the
rapid advancements and innovations, several myths have persisted. Is it okay to leave your smartphone charging overnight? Do Macs get viruses? And what
about those 5G towers? What’s going on with those?Common tech myths can often lead to misunderstandings. They can even hinder your
ability to fully use various tools and devices. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the
most common tech myths that continue to circulate. We’ll also explore the truth behind
them.Myth 1: Leaving your device plugged in overnight damages the
battery First is one of the most persistent tech myths. Leaving your device plugged in overnight
will harm the battery life. But this myth is largely outdated. Modern smartphones, laptops, and other devices have advanced battery management
systems. These systems prevent overcharging. Once your device reaches its maximum charge capacity, it automatically stops charging. This is true even if it remains connected to the power source. In fact, it is often
recommended to keep your device plugged in overnight to ensure a full charge by
morning. So, feel free to charge your gadgets overnight without worrying about battery damage.Myth 2: Incognito mode ensures complete anonymity.Many users believe that using incognito mode in web browsers guarantees complete
anonymity. They feel completely secure while surfing the internet using this mode. But this
is not entirely accurate. While incognito mode does provide some privacy benefits, they’re
limited.For example, it mainly prevents your device from saving the following items: • Browsing history • Cookies • Temporary filesHowever, it does not hide your activities from your internet service provider (ISP). Nor
from the websites you visit. ISPs and websites can still track your IP address. They can also
still watch your online behavior and collect data.Do you truly want to remain anonymous online? Then consider using a virtual private
network (VPN). Or other specialized tools that provide enhanced privacy protection. Myth 3: Macs are immune to viruses.Another prevalent myth is that Mac computers are impervious to viruses and malware. It is
true that Macs have historically been less prone to such threats compared to Windows
PCs. This does not make them immune.Some people that tout this myth point to malware statistics. For example, in 2022, 54% of
all malware infections happened in Windows systems. Just 6.2% of them happened in
macOS.But you also need to factor in operating system (OS) market share. As of January 2023,
Windows had about 74% of the desktop OS share. Mac’s OS had just 15%.When you consider this, it turns out the systems aren’t that different when it comes to
virus and malware risk. The infection rate per user on Macs is 0.075. This is slightly higher
than on Windows, at 0.074. So, both systems have a pretty even risk of infection. This is
the case even though Macs have a significantly lower infection count.As the popularity of Macs has grown, so has the interest of hackers in targeting these
devices. Malicious software specifically designed for Macs does exist. Users should take
proper precautions, no matter the operating system in use.You need to install reliable antivirus software. As well as keeping the operating system and
applications up to date. Exercise caution when downloading files or clicking on suspicious
links. Being aware of potential security risks and practicing safe browsing habits is crucial.
This is true for Mac users, just as it is for any other platform.Myth 4: More megapixels mean better image quality.
When it comes to smartphone cameras, savvy marketing sometimes leads to myths. Many
people believe that more megapixels equal better image quality. This is a common
misconception.Megapixels are an essential factor in determining the resolution of an image. But they are
not the sole indicator of image quality. Other factors play a significant role. Such as: • The size of individual pixels • Lens quality
• Image processing algorithms • Low-light performance A camera with a higher megapixel count may produce larger images. But it does not
guarantee superior clarity, color accuracy, or dynamic range.Manufacturers often strike a balance between pixel count and other image processing
technologies. They do this to achieve optimal results. When choosing a smartphone or any
camera, consider the complete camera system. Don't only focus on the megapixel countSeparate Fact from Fiction
In a world where technology is an integral part of our lives, you must separate fact from
fiction. Debunking common tech myths can empower you to make informed decisions. It
can also maximize the potential of your digital experiences. An understanding of the truth
behind these myths helps you use technology more effectively. It can also help you better
protect your privacy.
Get the Technology Facts from a Trusted Pro
Whether you need help with an infected PC or setting up a corporate network, we’re here
for you. We cut through the tech myths to bring you reliable and efficient service.
Give us a call today to chat about your technology goals and challenges.Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
5 Reasons for choosing Google Workspace in the new era of AI.5 เหตุผลที่ควรเลือก Google Workspace (ภาษาอังกฤษ)
Download For nearly 25 years, Google has built helpful products that people use every day — from Search and Maps, to Gmail and Docs in Google Workspace. AI has been transformational in building products that have earned a valued place in people’s lives. Across our productivity suite, advances in AI are already helping 3 billion users save more time with Smart Compose and Smart Reply, generate summaries for Docs, look more professional in meetings, and stay safe against malware and phishing attacks.We’re now making it possible for Workspace users to harness the power of generative AI to create, connect, and collaborate like never before. To start, we’re introducing a first set of AI-powered writing features in Docs and Gmail to trusted testers.Google Workspace is just getting started on delivering the full potential of generative AI. In the same way that we revolutionized real-time collaboration with co-authoring in Docs 17 years ago, we are excited to transform creation and collaboration all over again for all Workspace users.Discover more on the top 5 reasons why Google Workspace continues to be the choice of 3 billion users worldwide.Download
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