We are all keenly aware the cybersecurity risks are on the rise for all businesses. In today’s increasingly mobile and remote work environment, many businesses are allowing employees to use their personal devices (laptops, smartphones, tablets) to access work-related assets. While this can boost productivity and flexibility, it also introduces significant cybersecurity risks for all business owners.
Without proper safeguards, sensitive company data can be exposed to threats. Cyber threats like malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access are becoming more common. In this blog, ClarityHR will explore the risks, provide recommendations for your cybersecurity handbook, and discuss safeguards your business should implement. Plus, we will address why it’s essential to ensure your IT provider is proactively discussing these issues with you and your HR team.
The Cybersecurity Risks of Using Personal Devices for Work
Did you know that cyber criminals do not care if you are a solopreneur or a large corporation. If they can access your systems and your data, they will. According to a 2024 report by Verizon, “43% of all cyberattacks target small businesses, and 83% of small businesses are not financially prepared to recover from a cyberattack.”
- Lack of Device Security: Personal devices may not have the same level of security as company-issued equipment, such as firewalls, antivirus software, or regular updates.
- Data Leakage: Sensitive company data can be accidentally or intentionally shared through unsecured networks or personal apps.
- Malware and Phishing: Personal devices are more vulnerable to malware and phishing attacks, which can compromise work accounts and systems.
- Unauthorized Access: If a personal device is lost or stolen, unauthorized users may gain access to work-related data.
- Compliance Issues: Using personal devices for work can lead to violations of data protection regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or CCPA.
In fact, the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reported that “60% of small businesses that suffer a cyberattack go out of business within six months”, underscoring the devastating consequences of inadequate cybersecurity.
Recommendations for Your Cybersecurity Handbook
To mitigate these risks, your small business needs to have a cybersecurity handbook. Your cybersecurity handbook should include clear policies and guidelines for employees who use personal devices for work. Here are some key recommendations:
Require Strong Authentication
Two steps to access accounts are better than one. Today the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA) is one way to ensure that there are at least two verification steps before any user can access company systems and data. This additional step makes your accounts less desirable for hackers because you are no longer the low hanging fruit.
Enforce Regular Software Updates
Regularly updating your software systems is crucial for maintaining the security, efficiency, and functionality of your business operations. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to launch attacks, and failing to install updates can leave your systems exposed to malware, ransomware, and data breaches. Software updates not only patch these security flaws but also introduce new features, improve performance, and ensure compatibility with other systems.
For small businesses, staying up-to-date with software updates can prevent costly downtime, protect sensitive customer data, and maintain compliance with industry regulations. By prioritizing regular updates, businesses can safeguard their digital infrastructure, enhance productivity, and reduce the risk of cyberattacks that could have devastating financial and reputational consequences.
Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) Software
Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a critical component of cybersecurity, especially in today’s increasingly mobile and remote work environments. MDM allows businesses to centrally manage, secure, and monitor employee devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, ensuring they comply with organizational security policies.
With the rise of remote work, employees often use personal devices to access corporate networks. MDM ensures these devices are secure, reducing the risk of breaches from unsecured connections or vulnerable devices.
By implementing MDM, businesses can strengthen their cybersecurity. Protecting your businesses sensitive data, and ensure secure access to corporate resources, even in a distributed work environment. In fact, IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024 found that the average downtime caused by a cyberattack is 16 days. This includes time spent identifying the breach, containing it, and restoring systems, during which productivity is significantly impacted.
Educate Employees on Cybersecurity Best Practices
Today, human resource professionals play a pivotal role in training, collaboration, and building a culture of security. Especially, when it comes to cybersecurity. We all know how sophisticated cyber criminals can be. The problem is that when we have employees, we have even more opportunities to be targeted. According to SHRM, 95% of cybersecurity problems can be traced back to human error based on data from the World Economic Forum. Provide training on recognizing phishing attempts, securing devices, and safely using public Wi-Fi.
Limit Access to Sensitive Data
Understand what different users need access to and what they do not need access to. For instance, does an employee have access to sensitive information like credit card numbers or social security numbers stored in your system? What happens if that user’s access is compromised? Having different levels of access to key business systems is critical even for the smallest of businesses.
Use role-based access controls to ensure employees only have access to the data they need for their job. Make sure that administrative access is only controlled by the most critical users of your team. Also, ensure that you can block access for any reason to any of your employees. It is important to be able to shut off a user at any time for any reason.
Is Your IT Provider Working With Your HR Team?
Your IT provider plays a critical role in helping you navigate the complexities of cybersecurity. If they’re not proactively discussing these issues with you, it’s time to start the conversation. Ask them:
- What cybersecurity solutions do you recommend for our business?
- How can we ensure compliance with data protection regulations?
- What tools do you provide for monitoring and securing personal devices?
- Do you offer the best training on cybersecurity, and develop the best practices for your employees?
- Do you help develop a cybersecurity policy for your client’s employee handbook?
Proactive IT providers should be working with human resources. Together they should work to develop the best practices for your small business. Those should include the right policies, tools, and training to protect your business from cybersecurity threats.
How Can ClarityHR Help You With Implementing Better Cybersecurity Policies?
As an extension of your team, our ClarityHR experts can help you develop cybersecurity policies. They can also help implement technical safeguards. They should work closely with your IT provider to protect your digital assets. We want all our clients to have a secure environment that protects your company’s data and ensures compliance with regulations. Don’t wait until a breach occurs – take proactive steps today to safeguard your business.
The first step is to review your current cyber security risk policies in your employee handbook. Then, make sure that policies align with your IT partner’s recommendations for cybersecurity. If you’re unsure where to start, contact us, and let us explore the best course of action to protect your small business. Your data – and your reputation – depend on it.