Spring is a season of renewal and rejuvenation, and many of us may be eager to shake off the winter blues and get outside. It’s tempting to bring your work outside, but before you log onto your work laptop in a public place, take a moment to consider the cybersecurity risks involved.
Cybercriminals are always looking for ways to exploit vulnerabilities, and using a work laptop outside of its home network can be a major risk. Here are some potential dangers and steps to mitigate these risks:
- Public Wi-Fi networks: Often unsecured, these networks can be easily accessed by cybercriminals, resulting in unauthorized access to sensitive data.
- Shoulder surfing: When using a laptop in a public place, anyone nearby can potentially see what’s on your screen, jeopardizing confidential data.
- Physical theft: Working in a public place can make your laptop more vulnerable to theft.
- Malware and viruses: Public Wi-Fi networks can expose laptops to malware and viruses, compromising system security.
To mitigate these risks, follow these steps:
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection, making it difficult for cybercriminals to access your data.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi networks by using your mobile phone as a hotspot or investing in a personal hotspot device.
- Keep your laptop locked and secured when not in use.
The temptation to work outside during the springtime is understandable; however, individuals should be aware of the potential risks to their cybersecurity.
Have questions on how to secure your systems further when working outside? Drop us a line at solutions@thetek.com
