Welcome to 2018! We’re back up and running, and checking in on your security practices.

The Christmas period has been a reminder for us that many of you work off-site from time to time. Unfortunately, logging in to your website outside of your normal office set up can often come at a security risk. We’ve compiled some common risks you should be aware of and how to avoid them.

 

Keys

 

Risk: Using the internet

Yes, the obvious one, bad people and programs lurk online, let’s deter them.

Defence:

  • Make sure your computer has a firewall and anti-virus software installed.
  • Keep all operating systems and software updated and avoid using outdated programs.
  • ALWAYS scan for viruses – even on Apple devices, including phones.
  • Do not click on suspicious links.

 

Risk: NSFW websites

Have you ever heard the term Not Safe For Work? Content that would be deemed inappropriate for work, hence, we use our own personal devices in our own time to access this type of content. However, it’s often these types of websites come riddled with infection and will be trying to infiltrate your device. Once they have a hold; sensitive information, login details and files are no longer safe.

Defence:

  • Either: a) Avoid venturing into risky websites, or b) Avoid logging in to important accounts on the same device that’s used to access NSFW websites.
  • Be aware of other people using your devices even if they’re friends or family.

 

Risk: Public computers

Because we are not responsible for maintaining computers used by the general public we have no idea what protections are in place or what type of people have used them before us. Submitting log in, credit card or sensitive details to a public computer is putting you at risk of compromising that information.

Defence:

  • Do not use these devices to log into sensitive or business accounts.

 

Risk: Public Wi-Fi connections

Have you ever used free Wi-Fi in a café? Did you know that all information passed through an open network is available to anyone else on that connection? And if there’s a hacker sitting in the same cafe; simply connecting to that Wi-Fi could be giving them the keys to go through your device.

Defence:

  • Think twice before using public wireless connections when dealing with sensitive information.
  • Stay clear of any websites that do not use HTTPS while on a public network.
  • Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting to a public network to protect your information.

 

Risk: USB drives

Ever bought a bargain USB drive? Or been given one from a random source? Malware can be circulated via these simple devices.

Defence:

  • Use name brand USB drives like Sandisk bought at mainstream outlets like Officeworks.
  • Make sure your anti-virus software scans USB drives when they are plugged in – every time!
  • Reformat USB drives when you get them, erasing any hidden content.

 

Share your knowledge

Being aware of risks and minimising them will add an extra layer of protection to your website and your personal information. Are others who log on to your website aware of these risks?