6 September 2024
The new digital age has opened up many opportunities regarding working schedules and location, if necessary, as all you need is a digital device to make calls, respond to emails, and attend meetings.
Whatever devices you use, it serves as a social and professional passport into an increasingly interconnected world. It enables you to gain access to resources, opportunities, and connections. However, doing so exposes you to digital threats that many people are unaware of.
Overlooking security procedures, especially while working remotely as an employee, might jeopardise your data and privacy. Worse, if cybercriminals gain access to critical projects you will be working on, your organisation’s or your professional reputation and trust may be compromised. In this blog, UASA stresses the importance of protecting your personal data and device online so you don’t fall prey to digital threats.
Secure your connection.
Handling personal information on open Wi-Fi networks attracts hackers because such connections are typically insecure. As a result, they can intercept everything you send and receive, including passwords, while communicating with colleagues or clients.
Use a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN protects your device from spies, hackers, and other illegal access. The software offers several benefits, including:
- Total privacy (no log policy) and a kill switch to prevent security breaches.
- Features like ad-blocking and secure encrypted connections.
- Clear-VPN provides security against cyber dangers, allowing you to work confidently.
Strengthen your passwords
The key to creating a strong password is to use a range of random words unrelated to your personal information, including capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. When it comes to device security, more is always better. That is where two-factor authentication comes in handy. When it is integrated into your devices’ security strategy, it provides another barrier that attackers cannot penetrate.
Aside from passwords, two-factor authentication uses a code to establish the user’s credibility. The code can be received via a mobile phone or generated by an authenticator application. The second-factor feature protects your process so that even if hackers know your initial password, they cannot access your accounts.
Keep Your Software Updated
Updating your software is also one of the most effective defences against security threats. Older software may contain vulnerabilities that hackers can use to access your system. Patching your software prevents fraudsters from gaining access.
Do not treat security as an afterthought. Instead, practice consistently to safeguard your professional and business reputations. It would be best to always remain watchful to prevent hackers from infiltrating your devices.
UASA has enrolled all employees in a weekly Subscription to Security Awareness Course to teach them about digital security, threats, and preventive measures when working online from anywhere.
UASA encourages companies to prioritise digital security training to keep their employees aware and safe when working online or outside the secure office network.
Ref: www.freelancersunion.org www.uasa.org.za