Cybersecurity for your Home Office

With remote work here to stay, many people are investing more time and money into making their home offices more comfortable.  But, while a standing desk, an extra monitor, or a comfortable office chair are desirable, cybersecurity may be overlooked.  With cyberattacks happening more frequently, your home office or small business needs to be protected from hackers too!  Maddox AV installs systems and technology to help ensure you are safe and sound! 

What is Cybersecurity? 

Cybersecurity is defined as the state of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data. Control 4 is committed to strict and proactive standards for data privacy, because we believe trust must be earned. They respect your right to privacy and believe your data should be handled with integrity and confidence. This is why Control4 continuously evaluates and adjusts their security and privacy practices to ensure your data is protected and used appropriately. 

How does it work? 

The first step is to secure all of your endpoints, or devices, within your home office. This includes all laptops, tablets, phones, printers, smart speakers, and other devices that connect to the internet. Cybercriminals can easily hack any of these devices without a cybersecurity system. If you’re not unsure if your devices are protected, read the guidelines below for more information.  

Secure Your Devices 

Do you use the same password for all of your devices? That’s one of the easiest ways you can avoid being cyberattacked. Here are some other password recommendations: 

• Set up multi-factor authentication for all accounts, including your social media accounts. 
• Change your passwords frequently, at least every 90 days. 
• Never use your personal information such as your initials, birthday, or pet’s name.  

• Use a password manager to create and store hard-to-guess passwords.  

In addition to these recommendations, it's important to keep your devices secure when you're not using them, such as setting a passcode or face/thumb recognition on your cell phone, locking your computer when it's idling even in your home office, and never leaving your open devices unattended in a public space.  

Use a VPN and Firewall 

Most home office workers use a VPN to access work files on their computers, but many should consider buying one for their personal home devices. A VPN, or virtual private network, is a cheap and easy-to-use cybersecurity system to secure your internet connection. They work with your home Wi-Fi by encrypting incoming and outgoing data, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to steal your information. Another good tip for improving your cybersecurity at home is to use firewall security. A firewall determines which type of data is allowed to pass into your network and which data will be blocked. Media servers also act as a great buffer if you're looking for a private and secure way to store your personal information. A firewall and VPN will help eliminate external threats from making their way into your network.  

Invest in Cybersecurity Technology 

Antivirus software is one of the best ways to protect your home office. Antivirus software blocks viruses, malware, ransomware, and other malicious ware that might be trying to steal your information. It’s important to know the potential dangers that face your personal devices. Here is a brief overview of the most common types of cyberattacks: 

• Malware: Malware, better known as "malicious software," is any intrusive software that can harm your data or devices. This includes viruses, spyware, ransomware, and much more. It is the most common type of cyberattack. 
• Password Attacks: Using the same password for every device, as mentioned above, makes it extremely easy for criminals to access your various accounts and personal information.  
• Phishing: This cyberattack is common through email, text messages, social media posts, and phone calls. Criminals will attempt to have you reveal personal information, such as your social security number, credit card number, or bank information. They typically pose as a trusted adult from your bank, government entity, or place of employment. Never give out your personal information over the phone. If you’re unsure if this person is a scam or not, hang up and call your bank, place of employment, or government entity. 

Cyberattacks occur more often as our culture shifts to hybrid and remote work structures. Therefore, keeping you and your home office safe from cyberattacks is essential.  Contact the experts at Maddox Audio Video today for a free consultation.