Working remotely has many advantages, but one of the disadvantages are the potential threats to your sensitive data and cyber security. When working remotely from your own computer you might have to use a variety of internet connections, ranging from your own personal Wi-Fi to hotspots and public Wi-Fi connections. This can pose a threat to not only your own sensitive data but also to your organization’s, unless you have the proper security measures in place. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of VPNs for remote work and safe internet use while traveling.
VPNs Explained
VPNs are used to secure and encrypt your connection to the internet, adding a layer of protection and privacy to your browsing activities. Because they can bypass geographical restrictions, they are also often used to access online services and resources that may not be available in every region. As well as this, one of the main VPN advantages is the fact that they can protect against various online threats, including phishing, spyware, and viruses.
The Rise of Remote Work
It’s no wonder that remote working is being widely embraced around the world. In the US alone surveys suggest that working remotely can increase productivity, boost employee satisfaction, and reduce the number of sick days taken. While remote workers are less likely to be distracted by chit-chat with colleagues, it is suggested that the loneliness of working from home can also counteract productivity. This is why hybrid models are rapidly becoming the norm, to allow employees to experience the best of both worlds.
Despite the many positives to remote working and being able to work while traveling, there are downsides. Security is a primary concern.
Security Threats When Working Remotely
There has been a rise in cybercrime directly correlated to remote work – in fact, it’s suspected that home workers are now the primary target for cyber criminals, due to the varied knowledge of cyber security and lack of cohesive security measures. Here are some of the main threats remote workers are likely to encounter:
- Phishing scams: Remote workers are often the target of phishing emails impersonating colleagues, tricking them into revealing sensitive information such as login details.
- Unsecured Wi-Fi networks: Remote workers are more likely to connect to public Wi-Fi, such as that found in coffee shops, which may lack proper security measures and make their device vulnerable to attackers.
- Video conference intrusions: In a move known as Zoom Bombing, trolls and hackers have found ways of entering and hijacking video conferences and meetings. This can happen through links being shared irresponsibly or intercepted, and from meeting rooms not being password-protected.
- Lack of data encryption: Without proper encryption protecting transmissions, it’s possible that any data sent between company servers and remote workers might be intercepted and exploited.
Research from Alliance Virtual Offices also suggests that remote workers may be receiving cybersecurity training less than once a year. This can lead to bad habits, including poorly managed authentication and password choices, and saving sensitive information on shared computers. It also makes workers more vulnerable to phishing, as they may not be up to date on the latest scams to watch out for.
How Can VPNs Help?
Using a VPN for remote work can help to reduce the risk of all of the above threats. VPNs can ensure secure data transmission by diverting your internet traffic through the VPN server, and adding a layer of encryption to whatever you send. They can also mask your IP address, meaning that you can access the internet anonymously and hackers won’t be able to find your location or other personal data.
If you are based in a different region to your employers, a VPN will ensure you can access all of the resources and websites you need to use no matter where you are. This is particularly useful for people who like to use the flexibility of remote working for traveling, be it for leisure or business.
A VPN will even keep your personal and professional data hidden from your internet service provider, who may be collecting your data for legitimate (but still undesirable) uses.
What Kind of VPNs are Available?
VPNs vary in price, efficiency and structure. For example, a remote access VPN will connect multiple devices to a private network. If remote workers intend to use a remote access VPN it’s vital that they have their own security measures in place, as their personal device likely won’t have the same levels of protection as office computers, and could provide a weak spot for hackers to exploit.
It’s also crucial for your choice of VPN for remote work to have a no-logging policy. This means the VPN provider itself is prevented from keeping any record of your online activity. Without this guarantee, it defeats the point of using a VPN in the first place.
Protect Your Productivity
The benefits of VPNs are obvious and plentiful. Using a VPN for remote work can ensure that working from home is as relaxing and productive as can be, and not a potential risk to your entire organization’s security. Our VPN solution is affordable and easy to use, and a great choice for trying the benefits of VPNs for yourself.
