Keeping Employees Safe Online in Your Business in 2023

Did you know that 64% of companies get hacked worldwide? Small businesses are often targeted as they often lack the resources to properly protect themselves.

As technology advances and the work world shifts to a more remote-based model, it's becoming increasingly important for employers to focus on keeping employees safe online.

With malicious actors looking for any opportunity to access confidential information, it is critical that businesses take steps to protect their workers from cyber threats. Furthermore, it is crucial to teach your employees how to stay safe.

Here are some key strategies you can use to ensure your employees stay secure while working remotely. Keep reading for more information.

Train Your Staff on Employee Safety

When it comes to keeping your workplace secure and keeping employees safe from cyber threats, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of internet safety and the role each employee plays in safeguarding the company's digital assets. After all, the vast majority of security breaches stem from human error or improper online habits.

So, gather your team together and provide ongoing training that demonstrates the latest internet safety best practices. Show them how to spot phishing scams, properly manage passwords, and securely use devices connected to the network.

Additionally, consider integrating gamified learning and other engaging methods of education to ensure the lessons stick. Remember, creating a safe digital work environment begins with empowering your employees to be knowledgeable and proactive when it comes to internet safety.

Implement a Cybersecurity Policy

In today's digital age, it's undeniable that the internet has become an essential part of our daily lives, both at work and at home. With this increasing dependency comes the responsibility to be savvy about online security practices.

That's why it's vital for companies to establish a thorough cybersecurity policy that not only clarifies the do's and don'ts of employee internet usage but also offers actionable guidance on how to remain secure in the vast online world.

Taking the time to formulate and communicate these guidelines can significantly reduce the risks of data breaches or other cyber threats while empowering employees to feel more confident in this ever-evolving digital landscape.

A comprehensive cybersecurity policy should include:

Guidelines defining acceptable internet usage and the consequences for violations
Steps for secure practices such as using strong passwords and avoiding phishing scams
Protocols for reporting suspicious activity or security breaches
Regular reviews of the policy to ensure compliance
Keeping employees updated on changes to the policy

Use Strong Passwords

Keeping employees safe online is an important part of managing a business in the digital age. The best way to start is by making sure that all company accounts have strong, unique passwords that can't easily be guessed.

It might be tempting to just use one or two simple passwords, but using a different password for each account is the safest and most secure option. If possible, you should also enable two-factor authentication so that employees need to provide more than just a password before they can access any accounts.

Finally, remind everyone at least once a year to reset their passwords and ensure they're as secure as possible.

Use VPNs (Virtual Prive Network)

Making sure ‘you're keeping employees safe and secure online should be at the top of your list when you're running a business. One of the best ways to help ensure that safety is by providing access to an encrypted virtual private network (VPN). A VPN will make it much easier for your team members to

Access company databases
Job-specific computer programs
Sensitive documents

For example: If you are operating in North Carolina, your company might need to use VPNs to hide your location from anyone trying to gain access, so your employees can work safely and securely. Make sure to research the best VPN for Charlotte City to find the right one for your company’s needs. With it, you can protect your assets and the safety of your employees.

Monitor Your Company's Network

As a business owner, it's critical to ensure you're keeping employees safe when browsing online. Monitoring your company's network can be an important step to protecting them and maintaining secure systems.

By actively doing this, you can keep an eye out for the following:

Malware
Hackers
Other malicious activities

All of these could put sensitive information at risk. It also gives you a better understanding of how your employees are using the internet during working hours and can help you create clear company policies about online usage.

Monitor your company’s network! It’s one of the first lines of defense in protecting your business from digital disasters.

Avoid Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are crafted messages designed to steal login credentials and other confidential information. These emails often look legitimate, making it easy for the recipient to be tricked into responding.

In order to avoid falling victim, employees should always look closely at incoming emails and double-check the sender's address before clicking any links or sharing sensitive information.

Make sure they know there are no such things as secret offers that can only be accessed by following a link – if it suspects, it's best left-clicked! Having an effective anti-phishing policy on top of regular security training can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your people secure online.

Back-Up Files

Making sure you're keeping employees safe by frequently backing up their files. For example, having them save a version of any projects they're working on to a shared drive can make sure there is an extra layer of security in case of any technical issues.

Encouraging employees also to use cloud-based platforms like Google Drive can help regulate protection while they are away from their computers or phones. In such cases, any digital data will remain safe even if the hardware is lost or damaged.

Taking these simple steps can make sure that your employees are better equipped to work securely online.

Should You Outsource Your Cyber Security Needs?

If you are not well-versed in cyber security and the consequences of an insecure network, outsourcing this need might be a great option for your company.

By letting expert professionals handle our online protection, we can focus on doing what we do best, without having to constantly worry about hackers and data breaches. Plus, it's pretty cost-effective too, as we don't have to splurge on the resources and manpower needed to build our own top-notch cyber security team.

And these pros keep themselves up-to-date with the latest and greatest in security practices, giving us that extra peace of mind.

FAQ About Employee Online Safety

Keeping your employees safe online is essential to running a successful business. By implementing the right security measures, you can ensure that everyone remains secure while they work.

Here are some FAQs regarding online safety that you and your employees should consider.

What steps should I take to ensure online safety at work?

It’s important to take appropriate steps to keep yourself and your organization secure while working online. Use strong passwords, update software regularly, securely store sensitive information, use security features such as two-factor authentication where necessary, and protect personal devices from malicious attacks.

How can I prevent phishing attacks when using emails?

Be aware of signs that indicate a suspicious email may have been sent by a phisher. Look out for requests for personal information or links that lead to unfamiliar websites. If you are unsure whether an email is safe or not, don’t click on it – instead contact the sender through a different channel to confirm their identity.

What measures can I take to protect my computer while working remotely?

It’s important to keep your computer secure while working remotely by making sure that anti-virus software is up-to-date and installing firewalls where possible. Make sure you back up your files frequently in case of system failure or data loss, and ensure that any public Wi-Fi networks you connect offer adequate security measures such as encryption or a VPN connection.

How can I ensure my employees are following safe online practices?

Ensure your employees have the necessary training and education to understand secure online practices and implement a comprehensive cybersecurity policy. Invest in security software and services to help protect your business from malicious threats.

What should I do if an employee's online activity puts the company at risk?

Immediately address any questionable or potentially dangerous online activity with the employee. If necessary, consult legal counsel for further guidance on how best to proceed.