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Privacy & Cybersecurity For Managing Remote Workforces

03.27.20 written by

Among the many challenges of managing a remote workforce, privacy and cybersecurity risks and protections are near the top of the list. Below are a few measures and critical questions you should be discussing with your workforce.

FOR YOUR IT AND INFORMATION SECURITY TEAMS

  • Are the company’s computers up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates, including network and software applications?
  • Does the company run antivirus and anti-malware software with the latest definitions?    
  • Can the company require multi-factor authentication to access company networks and applications?    
  • Is the company’s Bring Your Own Device Policy up-to-date with clear requirements and restrictions?    
  • Are user access controls set at the least access level, meaning that users have no more than the minimum access needed to perform their work responsibilities?

FOR YOUR EXECUTIVE TEAM

  • What does the company’s cyber insurance cover with respect to data breaches, ransomware, and other liability arising from remote workers?
  • Are there any exclusions that apply to remote workers?    
  • Has the company clearly communicated to employees regarding work-from-home privacy and cybersecurity expectations?    
  • When did the entire workforce last undergo proper cybersecurity awareness training?

FOR YOUR ENTIRE WORKFORCE

  • Do not use your company-issued devices or network for personal use.    
  • Do not save user IDs and passwords in web browsers.    
  • Do not use public Wi-Fi or set your device to auto-connect to a public Wi-Fi.    
  • Do not save sensitive, confidential or company data to your personal computer,  company-issued device’s hard drive, or an external drive.    
  • Encrypt your devices, and before you send files and emails with confidential or sensitive personal information, make sure that the files and emails are encrypted.    
  • Always log off of the company’s network and lock your device when you are not using it.     Do not open emails from people or companies you do not know.    
  • Verify all requests for information or financial-related instructions directly with the individual requesting it.    
  • Do not click on links in emails or open attachments from suspicious emails. 

If you have any questions about this client alert, please contact Attorney Allison E. Cole, CCEP, CIPP/US, CIPM at (acole@www.kwgd.com) 330-497-0700.

NOTE: This general summary of the law should not be used to solve individual problems since slight changes in the fact situation may require a material variance in the applicable legal advice.

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