COVID-19 has more people working from home than ever, and that means there are more people new to home office security technology than ever on a steep learning curve.
Cybercriminals are exploiting confusion that comes with this new terrain. The FTC reported Americans working from home are being specifically targeted by cybercriminals seeking to capitalize on the COVID-19 crisis to pilfer personal identifying information, personal financial information, and – of course – medical information.
1. Set up a Virtual Private Network. If your work involves having access to sensitive information through online databases or through your device, setting up a VPN may be a good – or even legally essential – option for you.
2. Secure your home office from sight and sound. Privacy is paramount, especially when you are working from home, and especially when everyone is home for social distancing. This includes members of your household, AND your neighbors or those walking through the neighborhood. If your job requires HIPAA compliance, make sure your home office is situated out of earshot. Make sure members of your household know to stay on the other side of the house and keep doors closed when you are having a video or audio meeting. Restrict access to your work devices; shut them down and turn the off when you are not around. Use different devices for work and for other purposes.
3. Make sure your home network is secure. Change default passwords as hackers can find out manufacturer defaults. Have strong passwords and encryption, preferably WPA2 or WPA3. Be sure that all of your devices have anti-virus and anti-malware software that is up-to-date.
Be aware that remote freelancers are often targeted for bogus employment offers. These job offers lure workers into laundering money or handing over personal identifying information or personal financial information. Do not let this new territory lure you into becoming a victim of – or accomplice to – a crime.
Always click carefully – the hyperlink and the link-to address may not match and you may end up in danger. There has been an increase in fraudulent websites that closely spoof websites for legitimate public health resources. For safe and accurate information, go directly to the Center for Disease Control’s website, www.cdc.gov, or directly to the World Health Organization’s website www.who.int.