While the work-from-home model has resulted in employee relaxation and flexibility, it also amplified cyber security risks. 

According to surveys, 25% of all employees have experienced an increase in fraudulent emails and spam/phishing attempts in their corporate emails since the onset of COVID-19. 

With remote work looking like it’s here to stay, it’s essential to review security loopholes for making from-from-home settings secure against cyber threats. 

Read on to know the top cyber security risks to look out for when working from home.

Unsecure home network connection

It is essential to update your home router software in order to eliminate cyber security risks. Routers that aren’t updated regularly are vulnerable to cyber attacks. Besides, your home router isn’t likely to have a firewall for blocking and monitoring malicious activity. This, coupled with an updated router software, becomes a sweet spot for cyber threats.

More use of online tools

Online tools open another window of opportunity for cybercriminals. This has especially been in play since the pandemic, where remote work has mainstreamed tech tools usage. From cloud storage to online meetings to resource planning, the inclination for online software makes cyber security risks inevitable.

Employees can’t spot scams

A Society of Human Resources Management study found that 35% of employees reported feeling tired or drained of energy while working from home. This, in addition to a lack of knowledge and carelessness, results in giving cybercriminals access to their devices or company resources. If cybersecurity trainings are regularly provided, most of this negligence can be avoided.

Staff might conduct malpractice

Because of the economic impact the pandemic incurred, the financial position of many companies was put on the line. Aware of this, many workers might be preparing for the unprecedented situation of losing jobs or company insolvency. And so, as a precautionary measure, some employees might make copies of company data, which poses a serious risk of corporate fraud. 

Weak passwords

Despite VPNS, firewalls, and security software, a business would still be susceptible to cyberattacks without strong passwords. The primary entry point for hackers is usually accounts containing weak passwords. And for that, they use advanced tools such as password generators, coding bots, and more. What this means is that a strong security infrastructure should start with strong account passwords. 

Phishing and ransomware

Phishing and ransomware are designed to trick victims into sharing sensitive information or downloading malware into their systems. The cybercriminals then capitalize on this information, often by locking it and asking for ransom.  

Unencrypted file sharing

Companies keep files encrypted as long as they’re saved on their network. The problem comes when file sharing is done without encryption. As a result, sensitive details like client account information, customer data, and financial information are put at stake. If cybercriminals successfully intercept these files while they’re shared, identity theft and ransom are two common consequences. 

Personal devices

Organizations ensure a strong security infrastructure on work devices to keep malicious attacks at bay. However, some of the employees might be using personal devices while working from home. Whether it’s about logging into business accounts, taking sensitive calls, or receiving voicemails, unencrypted personal devices make a serious cyber security concern.