Mobile Encryption Remote Workers Keeping Data Safe

Working remotely comes with many perks, flexibility being one of them. But as telecommuting and working remotely become more popular, data security becomes an area of concern. How do you keep your business data safe if your team is using unsecured Wi-Fi networks or what happens to customer/client documents and passwords when your workforce is remote?  

Bottom line: everyone involved is responsible for protecting data and mobile encryption can be the way to keep business data secure. Here’s how to get started with mobile encryption:  

What is Encryption?

With the rise of mobile devices, many businesses are using mobile devices to process, store, and transmit credit card data, emails, customer documents, and more. With the prevalent use of technology in our daily lives, security is a common thread of discussion for SMBs.  

What happens if a device is lost or stolen?

How can you keep your business data secure when your workforce is working remotely?

This is where encryption comes in. Encryption ensures that should a laptop, phone, or  USB,  is stolen or lost, the data is still secured.

How Does Mobile Encryption Work?

Generally, encryption protects your mission-critical data from falling into the wrong hands, should someone get ahold of your company’s devices. Full disk encryption encrypts all the data on your storage device on a hardware level.  

The data is automatically converted into something that cannot be deciphered with the key. Without the right authentication key, the data is inaccessible, even if the hard drive is put into another machine.  

Mobile devices like tablets and smartphones have built-in encryption options that provide protection of storage. In this case, the encryption is done by enabling the appropriate options and adding an authentication key. Keep in mind this doesn’t guarantee the security of your data, the authentication key can be stolen, so it is best to limit access to these keys and have strict password policies in place!

Make sure to have a backup and disaster recovery plan in place for your business in case of data loss! Call IT Resources today to discuss a BDR plan: (813) 908-8080 ext. 101

Protecting Business Data

When it comes to your customer data, it’s important to stay trusted and keep important information secure. In addition to mobile encryption, here are some other ways to protect your information both in and out of the office:  

• Establish A cybersecurity policy
• Ensure All internet connections are secure
• Use a Password manager  
• Rely on two-factor authentication for all mobile devices
• Use encryption software on in-office technology & tablets
• Use firewalls and anti-malware/anti-virus software and keep it updated regularly

How Remote Workers Can Easily Use Mobile Encryption

Remote workers can protect your data with the use of encryption software. Data breaches and vulnerabilities can be avoided if access is barred from unauthorized users of any company devices. Additionally, care should be taken to utilize end-to-end encryption for any programs used for chatting or email.  

Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat files can be encrypted so that files shared between remote workers are safe and secure.  

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Tips for Businesses With Remote Workers

• Be aware of who can view Google Drive and Dropbox uploads: The data stored on these cloud platforms is generally safe, as they use heavy encryption for stored data to dissuade hackers. Make sure you know who has access to your shared folders to avoid theft of your work and personal info.  
• Use secure apps for work-related instant messages: Work-related discussions should not take place on Facebook Messenger. Apps like Slack or Asana have strong security and are made for professional use. Any messages sent on Facebook messenger are unencrypted and can be read by Facebook. (Unless you use the “secret conversation” option.)  
• Use a VPN: A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts data end-to-end that is transferred from one device to the next. Make sure your workers know to use the VPN before signing onto public Wi-Fi networks. If you decide to choose a VPN, make sure the VPN is from a reputable company. Some companies log business activity, which can in turn be sold to a third-party.
• Use a two-step authentication process. For work documents or important data, upload the data to a secure location, then send a link to your co-workers or employees so they can securely download it. It is best to avoid attaching these documents directly to an email.  

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Protect Company Data + Devices with IT Resources

If ever there was a time to execute encryption for your business devices, it is now. Working from home and telecommuting is becoming part of the norm. Having encryption in place will secure your business data from hackers who want to steal your data!  

Avoid loss of data and interruptions in business profitability and hire IT Resources to manage and encrypt your companies devices and IT infrastructure. While we’re at it, we can create a backup and disaster recovery plan for your important data. Don’t wait! Our Tampa, FL managed IT services find and fix problems before they become a bigger issue for your business. Call today for a consultation: (813) 908-8080

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