Recommendations for working from home securely

It’s important to all employers to a greater or lesser extent that work outside the office can be done securely. There are a lot of ways this can be ensured technically, but it’s not only our digital behaviour we have to monitor: our real-world behaviour and how it affects our employer’s interests is just as important. Our head of information security Mariliis says there are five recommendations you should follow to make sure you’re organising your work outside the office securely, whenever and wherever you happen to be doing it.

1. If you walk away from your computer – for example to go to the kitchen and make yourself a cup of coffee – be sure to lock the screen. The easiest way of doing this is by pressing Win + L.
2. If you make any notes on paper, whether loose leaf or in a notebook, don’t leave them unattended. Once you’ve finished your work, gather them up and put them somewhere no one else will see them. Needless to say, don’t keep any notes by your computer with your passwords on them either!
3. No doubt we all miss talking to people and discussing work matters face to face. Don’t overburden your family with work chat, but use secure online channels to get in touch with your colleagues.
4. When talking to co-workers over the phone or making a conference call, use headphones and, if possible, choose somewhere private.
5. There are very few people who aren’t interested in the latest info regarding COVID-19. Unfortunately, those determined to spread malware are making the most of this situation. There are a lot of scams around at the moment, so be very wary of e-mails with links or attachments purporting to provide updates on the spread of coronavirus.

In order to work outside the office you often have to join centralised services, file-sharing platforms and communication networks. The Information System Authority has tips on what to keep in mind if you do, and I recommend that you read them. They also have advice on how to protect your devices at home – everything from your kids’ computers to baby monitors.

Stay safe and work securely!