SUMMARY: Remote work exposes sensitive data to new risks, especially when devices move between home and office. Whole disk encryption with BestCrypt, trusted VPN connections and end to end encrypted communication can greatly reduce your exposure to cyber threats. You will also find practical advice for repurposing home computers, including secure wiping with BCWipe Total WipeOut, so your information stays protected wherever you work.
With the worldwide spread of COVID-19, many more people must now work remotely. Cyberattacks are rising as hackers try to take advantage of this opportunity. And data protection regulations still apply, as warned by the European Data Protection Board (EDPB).
How do you keep your organization’s data safe and compliant while nearly everyone is working away from the office?
This simple guide will help you understand which tools are most useful to you and your company to ensure protection of sensitive data from prying eyes.
3 Data Protection Tips
Most likely, our homes don’t offer the same protection as our office environments. When computers and hard drives leave the office building, new risks arise, and additional policies are required…
Tip 1. Leverage Whole Disk Encryption
When computers are lost or stolen, sensitive data goes with it. Whole disk encryption is the most basic defense to reduce this risk. Review step-by-step instructions to get started. For Admins, consider adding a key management system to remotely recover or reset keys that have been forgotten or compromised. This enterprise feature is offered by most commercial solutions – for example BestCrypt by Jetico.
Tip 2. Use Internet Security with a VPN Connection
When working from home, your traffic likely goes through an open public network instead of your protected office network. To block out others from snooping and tracking your online data, use a VPN connection. Review your existing Internet Security tools. Many providers also offer trusted VPN – for example Freedome by F-Secure, which claims no backdoors.
Tip 3. Rely on End-to-End Encryption for Communications
Calling, texting and sharing files with your team will become an essential part of your daily routine. Yet many communications and messaging apps are insecure; and companies providing the service can often access everything you say, write or send. End-to-end encryption is the best way to keep your communications secure. A very popular app for trusted communications is Signal.
Extra Tips – New Computer or Repurposing Used Hardware?
When it’s not possible to bring your office computer home, people might be asked to repurpose an old home computer or get a new device. In these cases, here are some general tips:
- Before re-purposing, make sure to securely remove all existing data. Tools to wipe out entire hard drives are available for download – for example BCWipe Total WipeOut by Jetico.
- Download and install all security patches and updates available for your operating system. And keep installing those updates as they become available.
- Use Internet Security software, including at least antivirus and firewall, to ensure you stay safe online before connecting to the rest of the world. Most likely your company already has a policy in place. Talk to your IT department or check out these 10 free data privacy tools to get started.
- Check your privacy settings. Don’t know where to find the privacy settings for your browser or for the apps and websites you use? Find help from the NCSA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Is Whole Disk Encryption Especially Important When Working Remotely?
When devices leave the office the risk of loss or theft increases. Whole disk encryption ensures that even if a laptop falls into the wrong hands the data stays unreadable without the decryption key. It is the first and most essential layer of protection for remote workers.
Do I Still Need a VPN if My Company Uses Cloud Services?
Yes. A VPN protects all internet traffic, not only what goes to your cloud provider. It encrypts your connection on public or home networks and reduces the chance of interception or tracking. This adds a layer of security beyond the protections built into cloud services.
Which Jetico Tools Are Relevant for Remote-Work Security?
BestCrypt Volume Encryption protects entire hard drives for employees working outside the office. For repurposed or second-hand computers BCWipe Total WipeOut securely removes all existing data before the device is used for work. Together they cover both data protection and secure device preparation.
Are Regular Messaging Apps Safe Enough for Work Communication?
Most standard messaging or calling apps are not end to end encrypted, which means providers or attackers may access your content. Tools like Signal offer true end to end encryption so only the sender and receiver can read or hear the communication.
What Should I Do Before Repurposing a Home Computer for Work?
Start by securely wiping all existing data to remove old files, credentials and traces of previous use. Then install system updates, enable antivirus and firewall protection and review privacy settings for browsers and apps. This ensures the device starts clean and meets basic security requirements.