6 Internet Security Tips in The Workplace

There is always a potential risk when you are using the internet both at home or outside, and your workplace is no exception. With the hundreds, and possibly, thousands of people simultaneously connected to the network encountering security issues is quite possible.

Here are 6 tips in keeping safe while using the internet at work.

Setup your Internet Use Policy

Set up ground rules at work, Inform employees on the do’s and don’ts in the office. Give clear guidelines about:
• Accessing social media
• Web Surfing
• Accessing entertainment sites like YouTube or Netflix
• Downloading programs and apps
Update these policies on a regular basis to keep up with the rapid change in technology.

Password Management

As funny as it might sound passwords are actually your lifeline when it comes to internet security and must not be taken lightly. Here are a few ways to manage passwords:

• Create complex passwords – Mix and match Uppercase and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols, it might be a little taxing to remember such combinations but it’s worth the effort.
• Generate passwords – If you’re not content on just a single password then it might be better to generate random ones on a daily basis. This would eliminate any risks should your password from previous days be discovered.
Create restrictions

Having unlimited and free access may put smiles on employees faces but sometimes restrictions are a must to stay protected. Here are some ways to put restrictions on network without compromising its use for work:

• Block access to some websites and programs – Prevent access to websites and programs that could have potential risks like torrents and unsecured download sites.
• Create a network login for employees – Besides passwords, this would add a layer of security in your networks and it removes outsider access.

Educate Employees

While having ground rules and restrictions are good, knowledge is always better. Train and teach employees about internet security and the company policies as often as possible, keep up with the ever-changing landscape of the internet. It also wouldn’t hurt to self-study every now and then on internet security and facts the company might have missed. Here are a few common security risks to take note of.

• Phishing – a form of scam to acquire a person’s personal information like credit card credentials and account passwords
• Scams – This is probably the most diverse form of internet risk one can encounter ranging from e-mail scams to even online shopping scams.
• Viruses – This could be acquired by your system via opening unsafe attachments in e-mails or downloading programs and apps from unsecured sources.
• Hacking – The most common form of internet security breach and probably the most dangerous.

Patch and Update Regularly

As new threats and vulnerabilities occur regularly, it is recommended to patch and update the workplace internet security systems as often as possible.

Test the Security Systems

Conduct mandatory testing of the implemented security systems to iron out possible loopholes and weaknesses. Also test how employees would react and respond to possible attacks such as Phishing and various Scams (e-mail, social media, etc.)

As prepared as one can be there will always be times when breaches to the system are inevitable so keep yourself informed and prepared at all times, and also educate yourself on what to do in the event that you become compromised.

The saying that goes “An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure” fits right well in the work environment.

We’re working with Globe Business on a series of #makeITsafePH articles and guides to help you be more informed and aware of the risks when logging online.

More #makeITsafePH security tips:

• 5 ways to spot a Phishing Site from a Mile Away
• 10 Email Tips to Keep Away from Spam
• How to Manage Internet Use for your Children
• How to Clean your PC from Malware
• 6 Internet Security Tips in The Workplace
• How to Keep Safe when using Public or Free WiFi
• 4 Signs Your Online Accounts May Have Been Compromised