The hybrid work arrangement has been gaining traction today as more companies and modern workplaces consider implementing this work setup in their organization. Essentially, a hybrid work model supports remote and on-site setup, giving employees more flexibility to fulfill their roles. In this setup, they can choose whether to report to the office, stay at home, or go wherever they feel they’re more productive to do their tasks.
However, as businesses adopt this flexible approach to working, they must also consider how this can affect their IT systems and infrastructure. This is especially since, while the hybrid work model offers many benefits to companies, it also poses some challenges, such as safeguarding valuable business and client data and thwarting cybersecurity risks that employees may encounter. Hence, the importance of having robust cybersecurity measures in place.
Suppose your business is considering shifting to a hybrid work setup. As a good start, it’d be good to be familiar with how this model can increase the risk of cyberattacks in your company and why having advanced cybersecurity is crucial to the success and safety of implementing a hybrid work environment.
1. Employees May Use Unsecured Networks
The rise of having remote workers has created a new challenge for companies looking to protect their data and infrastructure. Since with a hybrid work arrangement, employees have the freedom and flexibility to choose to work anywhere, the more risk your organization’s IT infrastructure could be exposed to.
For example, when working outside, your employees are likely to use public Wi-Fi connections or unsecured networks to access files, send emails, or coordinate with their colleagues. But it’d be worth noting that most public networks are not encrypted, which increases the chances of hackers gaining access to your system. Generally, when your employees are using encryption-free networks, cybercriminals can monitor their activities, whether they’re sharing files or discussing confidential information with other team members.
That said, with the flexibility and convenience offered by hybrid work arrangements comes greater risks, necessitating the implementation of advanced cybersecurity measures. This means that while your internal IT team can still assist you with your daily operations, it may be best to get extra help in managing your business’s cybersecurity. As a good start, you can search online for managed IT service providers within your area or check resources like https://www.kditservices.com/it-support-orange-county/.
2. Employees Will Be Using Their Own Devices
With hybrid work arrangements, employers don’t usually provide their employees with computers. And in this setup, employees use their personal computers or mobile phones to access company resources, which can put sensitive information at risk.
For one, their devices could be vulnerable and more prone to malware and virus, especially if they don’t have anti-virus and anti-malware software installed on their computers. Cybercriminals can take advantage of this weak point to hack into your servers and access business data.
One of the best ways to combat this is by implementing strong cybersecurity policies to secure business data being accessed by your employees, regardless if they’re working in the office or at home. It’s critical to discuss with your team the do’s and don’ts, especially if they’re using their personal devices to perform their functions. For instance, aside from installing the necessary software, it’s also part of their responsibility to update or install software patches to keep such tools effective and more robust in thwarting threats.
3. Employees May Be Vulnerable To Cyber Attacks
Your employees are your company’s first line of defense against cyberattacks. That said, without sufficient knowledge of cyber threats, how to detect and prevent them, and what to do should they encounter them, the riskier it can be for your business.
It’d be good to note that hackers are becoming more creative as they find new ways to hack a company’s network and access sensitive information. For example, one of the most common methods cybercriminals use today is spear phishing – a highly targeted form of social engineering that uses email as the attack vector. Spear phishing emails are designed to trick recipients into clicking on attachments containing ransomware payloads, which can then infiltrate endpoints such as workstations.
With a hybrid work arrangement, your employees could be at risk of falling victim to these attacks. Aside from educating your employees, it’s also crucial to implement advanced cybersecurity measures like two-factor authentication, threat detection or prevention solutions, and encryption protocols. This way, you can add another layer of protection to your systems and prevent cybercriminals from getting easy access to business data.
Key Takeaway
With how almost every business relies on technology and the internet for their operations today, the more they could be at risk of digital attacks. But the need for more sophisticated cybersecurity measures becomes more crucial as organizations embrace a hybrid work arrangement.
For one, employees are likely to use their personal devices and unsecured networks when working and accessing business files. Moreover, they could also be vulnerable to falling victim to cyber threats. But with proper preparation, like advanced cybersecurity measures and a proactive mindset, companies can reduce the negative impact of cybercrime on their hybrid work environment.