With the last of the pandemic restrictions lifted here in the UK, more and more people are heading back into their offices – even if not full time. Sadly, at the moment, there is a need for a different kind of vigilance with the deteriorating situation in Ukraine providing the backdrop for a potential increase in already prevalent cyber attacks. Given the current backdrop, maintaining cyber security is firmly at the top of the agenda and we also focus on the evolving hybrid working environment.
Staying cyber safe
We know this is a topic we discuss frequently but with all of our lives so dependent on technology, it is so important. If you don’t maintain good cyber hygiene you could easily let the hackers in with the potential for some nasty consequences. The situation in Ukraine has raised concerns even more, and the NCSC has been actively warning about further escalation in cyber attacks in both its weekly threat report and ad hoc guidance. Simple actions you can take to protect yourself include:
- Patching – install software patches as soon as they are available (if we manage your IT support, then we automate this)
- Anti-phishing training – with increasingly sophisticated attacks, human behaviour is increasingly the weak link
- Use strong passwords and a password manager – don’t make it easy for the hackers
- Access control – make sure you have written onboarding processes and remove user access as soon as they are no longer needed
- Device management – make sure you always know who has your devices and where they are, especially mobile ones
Location flexibility
Even though some people are now returning to the office full time, post-pandemic working looks like it will be forever changed. Some want to remain at home, others can’t wait to get back to office life but there also seems to be an in-between state – those who want some variety. Depending on your circumstances getting out to a shared workspace or a local café can offer a nice change of scene. This FT article comprehensively outlines how hybrid working might further evolve. Wherever you end up sitting with your devices, you do need to think about both your virtual and physical device security. Here’s some tips to help you stay safe and you can always check out our previous newsletters for help:
- Secure all your devices with a strong password or pincode
- Make sure your laptop uses full disk encryption
- Keep all your devices physically secure
- Use a VPN if you are accessing public Wi-Fi networks