ARTICLE: 10 ways you can make remote work more secure

Since hacks are more likely to happen when people work from home, we must stay on guard to keep our systems and services safe and secure. Here are some tips from our IT Risk and Compliance team to help you protect yourself from hacking, no matter where you are.

Use only the tools the company gives you at work.
Use a business tool like a laptop only for business. Keep gadgets for home and work separate.

Use a VPN (a virtual private network) at all times.
When you work from home, a VPN is a great way to keep your information safe. It makes a safe connection between your computer and the internet, making it hard for anyone to see what you do online.

If something looks strange, there’s a good chance it is.
Be careful about things like getting files from emails or clicking on links that look sketchy. If you’re not sure, call the person before you click.

Use different passwords.
Don’t use the same password for more than one computer or account. Try putting together three or four words that are hard to guess. Most of the time, a mnemonic will help you remember them. Your password can also be an easy-to-remember line.

Don’t leave your gadgets alone when you’re out and about.
Even for a few seconds, you should never leave your gadgets alone. Also, never ask someone else, especially a stranger, to keep an eye on your laptop, computer, or phone.

Don’t use Wi-Fi in public places.
By now, everyone should be aware of the risks. Connect to a network you know you can trust or use your cell phone’s data link.

Keep your Wi-Fi at home safe.
Make sure the software on your home computer is up to date and that it has a strong, unique password.

Set up multiple forms of identification.
Duo is a must-have for protecting the sensitive information and resources of our company. Yes, it’s one more step, but it’s like our info has two locks on it.

Keep your virus protection tools up to date.
Viruses and other malicious software are made every day, so your antivirus software needs to be updated often. If it isn’t, your device and data could be at risk.

Tell about scams.
Republic Services keeps rules in place to help keep our networks and devices safe, but we also need you to help us protect ourselves. If you think you’ve been a victim of a hacking scam at work or if you have questions, you can send an email to info@acumenit.com.