Are you cyber-secure when working remotely?

Are you up to date with the latest cyber-security information?

The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) warns that cyber-criminals continue to target Aussies through COVID-19-themed fraud attempts, scams and email schemes, leaving many businesses exposed to malicious activity.

As the business owner, you should be familiar with cyber-security measures and the latest alerts. Consider signing up to Stay Smart Online’s Alert Service which provides simple safety and security information. The service suggests how to address risks and offers solutions to ensure users can remain protected, especially when working at home or on a mobile device.

Are you and your team using your own devices?

Bring your own device (BYOD) can expose your business to cyber-threats. BYOD security measures are key to keeping devices secure and reducing unnecessary risks. Here are our top tips:

1. Make passwords compulsory on all BYOD devices: Passwords should be unique, avoiding anything that’s generic or easy to guess.
2. Use data back-ups: Provide your team with remote server access or an alternative back-up solution and ensure that data is being backed up at least daily.
3. Have a recovery procedure: In the case that you need to access a back-up, it’s important to know how to restore data. Being familiar with this process will ensure down-time is minimised.
4. Prohibit unnecessary applications: Use access permission controls to ensure that users can access only what they need to work efficiently.
5. Ensure antivirus software is operating and up to date on all devices: Adopt a reliable security application that scans and protects devices from threats.
6. Restrict wireless and network connectivity: Devices should be set to prompt users before joining a new network to ensure only safe and trusted connections are established.
7. Adopt a ‘Find My Device’ service: Users should subscribe to a device locator in the case that a device is stolen. Consider a service that also has a remote wiping feature, so that confidential data can be promptly deleted if necessary.

Are you and your team trained to avoid cyber-threats?

Empowering your staff with adequate training and support will help your business remain protected. You could consider enrolling your team in an accredited cyber-security training course. The ACSC offers several free step-by-step guides on two-factor authentication measures, portable device security and more, so you can upskill for the changing environment. And if you’ve purchased cyber-security software, many of these programs offer additional training courses, which are often tailored specifically to their product.

Creating a guide or handbook for your business can also be helpful for your team. The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman’s Cyber Security: The Small Business Best Practice Research Report and Cyber Security Guide are useful resources to help get you started.