Seven cybersecurity risks of remote work and how to address them

7 Cybersecurity Risks of Remote Work and How to Address Them.jpg.jpg

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent times. It provides flexibility and convenience for employees. Additionally, telecommuting reduces office costs for employers. Many also cite productivity benefits due to fewer distractions.

Research shows a 56 per cent reduction in unproductive time when working at home versus the office. 

But there are some drawbacks to working outside the office. It’s crucial to be aware of the cybersecurity risks that come with remote and hybrid work. Keeping an eye on device and network security isn’t as easy. About 63 per cent of businesses have experienced a data breach due to remote employees.

This news doesn’t mean that you must risk security to enjoy remote working. You can strike a balance. Be aware of the cybersecurity concerns and address them to do this.

In this article, Jonathan Cundliffe, Managing Director of Lancashire-based J700 Group discusses some of the top cybersecurity risks associated with remote work. Jonathan also provides some practical tips on how employees and employers can address them.

Remote Work Risks & Mitigation

1. Weak Passwords and Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication

Using weak passwords puts accounts at risk of a breach. Reusing passwords across several accounts is a big cybersecurity risk. Remote workers often access company systems, databases, and sensitive information from many devices.

To mitigate this risk, you should create strong and unique passwords for every account and also enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification to access your accounts.

2. Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks

Working remotely often means connecting to different Wi-Fi networks. Such as public hotspots or home networks that may not be adequately secured. These unsecured networks can expose your sensitive data to hackers.

To protect company data, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).  That should be turned on when connecting to public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks. A VPN encrypts internet traffic. This ensures that data remains secure even on untrusted networks.

3. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks remain a widespread threat, that remote workers are particularly vulnerable to. Attackers may send deceptive emails or messages to trick users into revealing their login credentials or downloading malicious attachments.

To defend against phishing attacks: 

  • Be cautious when opening emails, Especially from unknown sources.
  • Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
  • Verify the sender's email address.
  • Be wary of any requests for sensitive information.

If in doubt, contact your IT support team to confirm the legitimacy of the communication.

4. Insecure Home Network Devices

Many remote workers use Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These include smart speakers, home security systems and thermostats. These devices can introduce vulnerabilities to your home network if not properly secured.

To address this risk, make sure you change the default passwords on your IoT devices. Also, keep your devices updated with the latest firmware. Consider creating a separate network for your IoT devices. A "guest" network can isolate them from your work devices and data.

Employers can improve security for remote teams using an endpoint device manager, such as Microsoft Intune, or something similar. These devices help make it easier to manage security across many employee devices.

5. Lack of Security Updates

Regularly updating your devices and software is crucial for maintaining strong cybersecurity. Remote workers may neglect these updates due to busy schedules or limited awareness. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain unauthorised access to systems.

To mitigate this risk:

  • Enable automatic updates on devices and software whenever possible.
  • Regularly check for updates, install them promptly to ensure you have the latest security patches.

6. Data Backup and Recovery

Remote workers create and handle a significant amount of data. The loss or corruption of this data can be devastating, so implementing a strong data backup and recovery plan is essential.

Back up your important files to a secure cloud storage service or an external hard drive. This ensures that if a hacker compromises a device, your data remains safe and can be easily restored.

7. Insufficient Employee Training

Remote workers should receive proper cybersecurity training. It helps them to understand security risks and best practices. Unfortunately, many companies neglect this aspect of cybersecurity. Leaving employees unaware of the potential threats they may encounter.

Organisations must provide comprehensive cybersecurity training to remote workers.

This training should cover topics such as:

  • Identifying phishing emails
  • Creating strong passwords
  • Recognising suspicious online behaviour
  • New forms of phishing (such as SMS-based “smishing”)
  • Get Help Improving Remote Team Cybersecurity

Remote work offers many benefits. It is important to remain vigilant about the associated cybersecurity risks.  Address these risks head-on and put in place the suggested measures.  If you would like some help, or to discuss your requirements just let us know.

For more information, please contact Angelina or Deon on 0333 7721 700 or email [email protected]

View our short video HERE >

About  J700 Group Limited

J700 Group provide effective IT support and services that enable your business to have secure, responsive and reliable information technology, keeping it running smoothly 24/7.  Above this though, we are a family run company who truly care about our customer service and the business relationships we develop.

J700 Group are a Lancashire-based, family-run, professional and responsive, Managed Solutions Provider helping Businesses, to utilise Innovative IT Consultancy Services, Cloud Solutions, Cyber Security, Microsoft 365, Telecoms, Web Design and SEO solutions to propel their organisation to the next level and beyond.

As an experienced IT Support Provider, helping businesses across Lancashire & Manchester, if you need any assistance with your IT including IT Hardware, a Disaster Recovery Policy or Managed Backup Solutions please get in touch with one of our team.

Where to find us: Prinny Mill Business Centre, 68 Blackburn Road, Haslingden, Lancashire, BB4 5HL

Enjoyed this? Read more from J700 Group Limited

Latest news

1

Airframe Designs appoints four new senior specialists to drive growth strategy ; Jerrod Hartley, Tom Baynes, Phillip le Mottee, Paul Burrow, Martin Stones and Chris Fleet

Airframe Designs appoints four new senior specialists to drive growth strategy

05 Aug 2025

2

Lancashire’s Fhunded VC programme celebrates over £21m of early-stage investments Rory Southworth and Troy Wood from Fhunded, Angelene Woodland from The British Business Bank

Lancashire’s Fhunded VC programme celebrates over £21m of early-stage investments

05 Aug 2025

3

Beever and Struthers and Menzies LLP merge to form a leading national force in accountancy and business advisory services Maria Hallows, executive partner Beever and Struthers, Simon Massey, managing partner Menzies LLP and Caroline Monk, executive partner Beever and Struthers

Beever and Struthers and Menzies LLP merge to form a leading national force in accountancy and business advisory services

04 Aug 2025

4

Edge Hill University tops the North West for employment after graduation once again Edge Hill University graduates

Edge Hill University tops the North West for employment after graduation once again

31 Jul 2025

5

New hire at Two Stories following raft of digital wins Anthony Rigby

New hire at Two Stories following raft of digital wins

31 Jul 2025

Background image for hub sign up block

LBV Hub

Leverage Lancashire Business View platforms

Post your news
Post your events
Post your offers
Build your network
Improve your SEO
Gain coverage in the magazine
Sign-up
Events
Lancashire Built Environment Conference 2025
BEC 315 X 315 Px
Networking
25 Sep 2025

Lancashire Built Environment Conference 2025

Blackpool Football Club, Blackpool, FY1 6HX

08:30 - 13:00

CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership Course
UCLanAerialCampus.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
21 Feb 2025 - 21 Feb 2026

CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership Course

Preston Campus, Preston , PR1 2HE

09:00 - 17:00

CMI Level 5 Project Management Course
UCLanAerialCampus.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
21 Feb 2025 - 21 Feb 2026

CMI Level 5 Project Management Course

Preston Campus, Preston, PR1 2HE

08:00 - 17:00

Advantage: AI – A Workshop for Business Leaders – August 14th
Navy--Event Tile.png.png
LBV Hub Seminars
14 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025

Advantage: AI – A Workshop for Business Leaders – August 14th

Door4 Office, Burnley Wharf, Burnley, BB11 1JG

09:00 - 12:00

The Business Network Central & East Lancashire
LBV Header (24).png.png
LBV Hub Networking
21 Aug 2025 - 21 Aug 2025

The Business Network Central & East Lancashire

Mytton Fold, Langho, BB6 8AB

11:30 - 14:15

Morecambe Bay Walk
Walk.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Awards
30 Aug 2025 - 30 Aug 2025

Morecambe Bay Walk

Arnside, CARNFORTH, LA5

09:30 - 14:00

Longridge Soap Box Derby
Screenshot 2025-06-10 090035.png.png
LBV Hub Fundraisers
14 Sep 2025 - 14 Sep 2025

Longridge Soap Box Derby

Berry Lane, Longridge, PR3 3WH

10:00 - 16:30

Cumbria Business Expo 2025
https---cdn.evbuc.com-images-880461633-4862066883-1-original.20241022-110415.jpeg.jpg
LBV Hub Exhibitions
19 Sep 2025 - 19 Sep 2025

Cumbria Business Expo 2025

Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle, CA2 4TS

09:00 - 15:00

Help to grow management course
Help to grow - barriers to growth.png.png
LBV Hub Seminars
26 Sep 2025 - 16 Dec 2025

Help to grow management course

Preston Campus , Preston , PR1 2HE

09:00 - 15:00

RISE - Lancashire's unique leadership programme for women
thumbnail_Emma Weston Illustration WENDY BOWERS RISE Illustrstion.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
22 Oct 2025 - 18 Mar 2026

RISE - Lancashire's unique leadership programme for women

East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, Clayton le Moors, BB5 5JR

09:30 - 15:30

North West Business Expo 2025
https---cdn.evbuc.com-images-880456273-4862066883-1-original.20241022-105445.jpeg.jpg
LBV Hub Exhibitions
24 Oct 2025 - 24 Oct 2025

North West Business Expo 2025

Bolton Stadium Hotel, Bolton, BL6 6SF

09:00 - 15:00

Lancashire Business Day 2025
241122lbvlancashiredaylhp0647web
Networking
27 Nov 2025

Lancashire Business Day 2025

Burnley FC , Burnley, BB10 4BX

12:00 - 17:00

Advertise with us

Reaching 50,000 members, our print, digital and event platforms offer a fantastic way to raise your business profile and help you grow.

Find out more LBV 123 Online Graphic
Subscribe now

Weekly news bulletin