How do you ensure data security when working remotely?

In the digital age, working remotely has become commonplace, but it also raises significant concerns about data security. Data management is a critical skill, especially when you're accessing sensitive information outside the traditional office environment. Ensuring the protection of this data is paramount to maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of your work and your organization's digital assets.

1 Secure Networks

When working remotely, connecting to secure networks is essential for safeguarding your data. Public Wi-Fi, for instance, is notoriously insecure, leaving your data vulnerable to interception. Instead, use a virtual private network (VPN) to create a secure connection to your company's network. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it much harder for cybercriminals to access your data. Additionally, ensure your home Wi-Fi is secured with strong encryption like WPA2 or WPA3 and that its firmware is regularly updated to protect against vulnerabilities.

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Innocent Atasie

IT Audit and Assurance Leader
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To ensure data security while working remotely: 1. Ensure VPN connectivity 2. Enable Multifactor authentication on devices 3. Encrypt data on devices. 4. Establish reasonable lockout threshold for inactivity. 5. Do not share devices or credentials 6. Enable data loss prevention (DLP) tools on devices.

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Waqas Ahmad

Certified Network Security Engineer || Information Security ||Certified ISO-27001 ||SC2-CC|| CCNP || CCNA|| CDCP|| CDFOS||CCNA-SEC|| JNCIA||
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While using Public internet VPN(virtual private Network) is compulsion to encrypt the data which will secure communication to protect from potential threat.

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2 Authentication Protocols

Strong authentication protocols are your first line of defense in data security. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), which requires two or more verification methods, adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password. This could include something you know (a password or PIN), something you have (a smartphone or token), or something you are (biometric verification). By implementing MFA, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your data, as a compromised password alone isn't enough to breach your accounts.

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Waqas Ahmad

Certified Network Security Engineer || Information Security ||Certified ISO-27001 ||SC2-CC|| CCNP || CCNA|| CDCP|| CDFOS||CCNA-SEC|| JNCIA||
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Multi Factor increase the security level by adding authentication layer. Multi factor can be biometric with passcode ,Smart token with password (some thing you have + some thing you Know). RSA, Cisco Doue are one of the leading MFA appliances used in IT industry.

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3 Regular Updates

Keeping software up to date is critical for remote data security. Software developers regularly release updates that patch security vulnerabilities. By neglecting these updates, you expose yourself to known risks that can be easily exploited by hackers. Ensure that all devices and applications you use for work are set to update automatically or establish a routine to manually check for updates frequently. This includes your operating system, antivirus software, and any other tools that are part of your remote working setup.

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Waqas Ahmad

Certified Network Security Engineer || Information Security ||Certified ISO-27001 ||SC2-CC|| CCNP || CCNA|| CDCP|| CDFOS||CCNA-SEC|| JNCIA||
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Regular Updates are key factor to protect infrastructure again potential threats. New vulnerabilities data base is updated and mitigation process can also implemented against attacks.

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4 Data Encryption

Encrypting your data adds a robust layer of protection, making it unreadable to unauthorized individuals. Use encryption for files both at rest and in transit. At rest refers to data that is stored on a device, while in transit refers to data being sent over the internet. Full disk encryption can protect the data on your hard drive, and end-to-end encryption should be used for communication such as emails and messaging. Encryption tools are often built into modern operating systems and communication platforms, so ensure they are activated and used correctly.

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Satyasai Gurazada

Certified Data Vault Practitioner (CDVP2) , VaultSpeed, Wherescape Red and Validatar ,Power BI, SQL SERVER and MSBI Certified Professional with 20 years Exp and work experience On HealthCare, Cognizent/Trizetto facets
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Encrypt Data in Transit: Use secure communication channels like HTTPS, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), or secure messaging apps that employ end-to-end encryption. Encrypt Data at Rest: Ensure that sensitive data stored on devices (laptops, external drives) is encrypted using strong encryption standards like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard).

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5 Access Controls

Implementing strict access controls is vital to minimize the risk of data breaches. This means only giving employees access to the data they need to perform their job functions. Use the principle of least privilege, which ensures that users have the minimum level of access required. Regularly review permissions, especially when roles change or an employee leaves the company. Additionally, consider using a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) that provides a controlled and standardized environment for accessing data remotely.

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Satyasai Gurazada

Certified Data Vault Practitioner (CDVP2) , VaultSpeed, Wherescape Red and Validatar ,Power BI, SQL SERVER and MSBI Certified Professional with 20 years Exp and work experience On HealthCare, Cognizent/Trizetto facets
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Limit Access: Ensure that employees only have access to the data and systems necessary for their roles. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Implement RBAC to manage permissions based on job roles.

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6 Secure Practices

Adopting secure practices is as important as any technology you use. Be vigilant about phishing scams and suspicious links, which are common tactics used to compromise data. Educate yourself on the latest security threats and how to recognize them. Also, ensure that physical documents are stored securely and shredded when no longer needed. When working in public spaces, be mindful of your surroundings to prevent 'shoulder surfing'—where someone may glance over your shoulder to see sensitive information on your screen.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you ensure data security when working remotely?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Secure Networks

2 Authentication Protocols

3 Regular Updates

4 Data Encryption

5 Access Controls

6 Secure Practices

7 Here’s what else to consider

Data Management

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How do you ensure data security when working remotely?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Secure Networks

2 Authentication Protocols

3 Regular Updates

4 Data Encryption

5 Access Controls

6 Secure Practices

7 Here’s what else to consider

Data Management

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