How Businesses Are Developing Cyber Security Protocols for Remote Teams

In today’s work-from-anywhere world, remote teams are the new normal. Whether you’re chilling in your home office, working from a local café, or dialing in from a beachside resort, the flexibility remote work offers is a huge plus. But with this convenience comes a pretty hefty downside - the risk of cyber threats has skyrocketed.

Remote teams accessing sensitive business information across multiple devices, networks, and locations provides cybercriminals with plenty of potential entry points into your company’s digital assets. Consequently, businesses have had to reconsider their existing cyber security protocols to accommodate the dynamic nature of remote work.

So what are businesses doing about this growing problem? It all boils down to developing comprehensive cyber security protocols specifically tailored for remote teams. Here are the top ways businesses are stepping up their security game for remote teams.

1. Encrypting Communication Channels and File Sharing

One of the biggest challenges remote teams’ faces is keeping communication channels secure. With employees spread out and using a variety of apps and platforms, there’s a greater risk that confidential information could be intercepted. In light of this, businesses are taking steps to encrypt all channels of communication so that messages and chat conversations (as well as emails and video calls) stay private.

A major part of secure communication is also about how files are shared within teams. When businesses password protect PDF files, they ensure that sensitive documents remain secure even if they’re accidentally sent to the wrong person. It’s not just about keeping the file itself safe - it’s about having that extra layer of protection in case things go sideways. Whether it’s sharing contracts, financial reports, or customer data, password protection adds a safeguard that keeps prying eyes at bay. And in a world where cyberattacks are a constant threat, these small yet impactful actions can make an immense difference to your company’s security.

2. Investing in Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

You’ve probably heard of multi-factor authentication (MFA) or two-factor authentication (2FA) before - you know, when you’re asked to not only enter a password but also verify your identity with a code sent to your phone. MFA has become one of the go-to security tools for businesses, especially for those with remote teams. Why? Because relying solely on passwords is a recipe for disaster. With so many people working remotely and using personal devices, there’s a higher chance of passwords being leaked or stolen.

MFA helps to create an additional layer of defense for hackers. This way, even if a hacker does get their hands on an employee password; they will not be able to access that account without the secondary layer of authentication. It is a very basic step, but it helps to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access. In fact, MFA has shown to be able to prevent over 99% of automated cyberattacks based on recent data. For businesses, this means better peace of mind knowing that their remote teams are less vulnerable to breaches.

3. Regular Cybersecurity Training and Awareness

Realistically, even with the most advanced security tools in place, a business is only as secure as its least cyber literate staff member (ie the weakest link.). That’s why businesses are prioritizing regular cybersecurity training, ensuring that all team members - whether they’re in the office or working remotely - are aware of the latest threats and know how to respond.

These training sessions cover everything from recognising phishing emails to understanding the importance of using strong passwords (seriously, no more “password123” or “qwerty”). For remote teams, in particular, it’s crucial that they know how to secure their home networks and devices. And with modern password managers being a reliable tool for keeping track of and even updating highly secured passwords regularly, your remote staff can maintain this first line of defense with minimal fuss.

Of course, your staff do need to know what’s expected of them when it comes to setting up 2FA and updating their passwords at regular intervals. This is just one way that cyber security training helps to instill a feeling of accountability among employees. Some businesses are even taking things a step further by running simulated phishing attacks to test their teams’ responses in real-time. Training and testing demonstrate a proactive approach that ensures everyone is prepared for potential threats.

4. Securing Personal Devices with Endpoint Protection

A lot of companies initially turned to a BYOD (bring your own device) model as remote work exploded. This increased staff flexibility significantly but also opened up a whole new range of security risks. Personal devices are often less secure than company-provided ones, and if they’re hacked, they can give cybercriminals a backdoor into the business’s network.

That’s where endpoint protection comes in. Businesses are now rolling out software that protects all the devices employees use for work - from laptops to smartphones - ensuring that no matter where someone is logging in from, their device is safe. Endpoint protection acts as a barrier, preventing malware, ransomware, and other threats from getting through. It also allows IT teams to monitor devices remotely and take action if any suspicious activity is detected. Now, more than ever with remote teams using their own devices to access company data from just about anywhere it is a crucial first step in securing business data.

5. Implementing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Chances are if you work remotely, you've heard of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).  VPNs have become an essential part of cyber security protocols for businesses, as they create a secure, encrypted connection between a remote worker’s device and the company’s network. What this also means is that whether you are working in a public/ café and using the Wi-Fi, your data will be safe from intrusive eyes.

For remote teams, VPNs are a lifesaver. They protect critical company information, and enable employees to securely access business-critical resources from anywhere in the world. With many companies having workers spread across different countries and time zones, a VPN ensures that everyone can work efficiently and securely without the constant worry of their data being compromised.

6. Establishing Clear Remote Work Policies

Finally, businesses are developing clear remote work policies that outline the dos and don’ts of working outside the office. As trivial as it may sound, this is a critical step to ensure that all your employees are aware and on par with cyber security. These policies typically cover things like how to handle sensitive data, when to use password protection, and the importance of locking devices when not in use.

It’s not just about laying down rules, though. A well-thought-out remote work policy provides employees with the tools and resources they need to work securely, no matter where they are. From guidance on using VPNs to tips on securing home networks, these policies play a key role in maintaining the company’s overall security posture. And with remote work here to stay, having robust policies in place to ensure productivity as well as digital security is more important than ever.

A tip for employers: don’t lose sight of the productivity benefits of hybrid and remote work models when establishing your remote work policies. You don’t want your policies to be so oppressive that it offsets the scheduling freedom and autonomy provided by your employees’ remote or hybrid work model. With the right approach and a solid understanding of WFH and its many dynamic benefits, you should be able to develop remote work policies that achieve both your goals as a business owner as well as upholding the job satisfaction of your staff and keeping their devices and your company info secure as well. Keep your focus on the big picture and not on picking at productivity minutiae!

As remote work continues to evolve, businesses must stay one step ahead of cybercriminals by developing solid security protocols. Whether it’s by encrypting communication channels, securing personal devices, or simply educating employees on the latest threats, these steps are critical to keeping both teams and data safe.

And remember, in this digital age, cyber security is everyone’s responsibility. So, don’t fall behind - the health and future of your business is counting on it.