Remote Work Risks for Small Businesses [Infographic]

Paul Lipman — April 21, 2020

In the wake of COVID-19, cybercriminals have been quick to exploit the sudden increase in remote workers. Haphazard, makeshift or non-existent cybersecurity has left many businesses unprotected. However, small businesses are particularly underprepared for the abrupt shift. Cybersecurity is often low priority for small and medium businesses who need to focus on maintaining positive cash flow and simply keeping their doors open. These companies are even more vulnerable than their larger enterprise counterparts as they lack the financial resources to pay high ransoms required by cybercriminals or recover from security breaches. For many, a cyberattack is a one and done proposition.

COVID-19 themed phishing emails and websites and apps hiding malware designed to steal information are on the rise. Ransomware has also been detected. As cybercriminals up the ante, the principal risk to remote workers is that of personal data and identity compromise. While larger enterprises can enforce a division between “work” and “personal” computer devices, smaller organizations are more likely to favor BYOD (Bring Your Own Device).

Protecting personal accounts and identity does not need to be a huge cost. Solid cybersecurity is a matter of protecting the home computers employees are using, such as desktops, laptops and smartphones. A VPN (virtual private network) is a simple way to create a secure work environment. A VPN creates a secure data tunnel from an end-user device into a company network. Every employee should connect to the internet through a VPN. Learn more about the risks of working from home, as well as how to protect your business, in the infographic below.

During the uncertain time of the coronavirus pandemic, small businesses that need assistance managing their cybersecurity are able to take advantage of a free, three-month minimum BullGuard Small Office Security license offered by BullGuard. There are zero financial obligations and no credit card information is required. The software supports up to 50 Windows, Mac and Android devices. Business owners can download the free trial here.

Infographic Source: BullGuard

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