Remote Work Cybersecurity Policy Essentials

Have you updated your remote work cybersecurity policy?

We recently received a notice from one of our clients today detailing their expectations for vendors visiting their locations.

I think about other policies that may need updating for the times. For instance, do your cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures address remote work?

If not, now is a good time to start to update them. This article will explore how to establish formidable cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures for your remote team.

Cyber security policies for remote team

As remote work gains prominence, robust cybersecurity policies are critical to safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining a secure digital environment. Here are key measures to protect your organization and remote team members from cyber threats.

• Clear Access Guidelines: Define approved devices, networks, and enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) for secure access.
• Encrypted Communications: Promote the use of encrypted channels and secure email practices.
• Data Protection: Implement encryption, access controls, and regular data backups.
• Regular Updates: Enforce timely software updates and security patches.
• Endpoint Security: Utilize firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection for device protection.
• Security Training: Conduct regular awareness sessions on cybersecurity threats.
• Incident Response: Establish a clear reporting and response procedure for security incidents.
• Secure Equipment Disposal: Provide guidelines for disposing of remote work devices safely.

Empower your remote team to adhere to cybersecurity standards

It is not only cybersecurity policies you need to take care of. Your remote team also needs to adhere to security standards. This is crucial for safeguarding sensitive and confidential information. These standards, developed by organizations like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), provide a set of criteria for organizations to follow. While some standards are mandatory, others are voluntary and considered best practices in the industry.

ISO 27001: The ISO 27001 standard provides a structured approach to information security management systems (ISMS) and is relevant for remote workers. It offers guidelines to identify, manage, and mitigate information security risks, helping organizations protect sensitive data and maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information accessed and transmitted remotely.

NIST SP 800-46: This special publication from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) focuses on secure teleworking practices, making it valuable for remote workers. It offers recommendations for secure remote access, communication channels, and handling sensitive information outside the office environment.

NIST SP 800-171: Originally designed for government contractors, NIST SP 800-171 has broader applicability, including remote workers in various industries. It outlines requirements for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), which remote employees handling CUI should be aware of to secure sensitive government information.

CIS Controls: The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls provides a prioritized set of cybersecurity actions to enhance security posture. Remote workers can benefit from these guidelines, covering critical areas like secure configurations, vulnerability assessment, and incident response readiness.

GDPR: While not a security standard, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is essential for remote workers dealing with personal data of EU citizens. GDPR sets strict requirements for data protection, handling, and breach reporting, impacting remote employees handling such data.

PCI DSS: The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) applies to remote workers handling credit card data. It mandates security measures for protecting cardholder information during transmission and storage, ensuring remote workers adhere to robust security practices when handling payment data. You can download our infosec framework guide to know which is right for your business.

Implementing Cybersecurity Procedures for Remote Teams

Cybersecurity procedures outline the guidelines and regulations governing the access and usage of online applications, internet resources, and data transmission for employees, consultants, partners, board members, and other end-users. These procedures are designed to promote responsible security practices and protect sensitive information across the organization.

Secure Remote Access

• Enforce the use of Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections for accessing company resources remotely.
• Mandate multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance the security of user logins.
• Regularly review and update access privileges based on job roles and responsibilities.

Encryption and Secure Communication

• Require the use of encrypted communication channels, such as encrypted email services, for transmitting sensitive data.
• Educate remote team members on the secure use of messaging platforms and collaboration tools.
• Emphasize the importance of avoiding public Wi-Fi networks for transmitting confidential information.

Data Handling and Storage

• Establish clear protocols for handling and storing sensitive data on remote devices.
• Implement data encryption measures for data at rest and in transit.
• Educate team members on secure data deletion and disposal practices.

Software Updates and Patch Management

• Ensure all remote devices are equipped with up-to-date operating systems and applications.
• Implement a robust patch management process to address known vulnerabilities promptly.
• Regularly review security updates and advisories from software vendors.

Endpoint Security

• Require the installation and regular updates of antivirus and anti-malware software on remote devices.
• Implement firewalls and intrusion detection systems to protect against external threats.
• Conduct periodic security scans on remote devices to identify and address potential risks.

Security Awareness Training

• Provide regular cybersecurity training to remote team members on identifying phishing attempts and social engineering tactics.
• Educate employees about the potential risks associated with sharing sensitive information online.
• Encourage a culture of security consciousness and reporting of suspicious activities.

Incident Reporting and Response

• Establish a clear procedure for reporting security incidents promptly and confidentially.
• Designate a response team responsible for investigating and mitigating cybersecurity incidents.
• Conduct post-incident analysis to identify lessons learned and improve incident response protocols.

Regular Security Audits

• Conduct periodic security audits to assess the effectiveness of cybersecurity procedures.
• Identify areas of improvement and implement necessary changes to enhance remote team security.
• Engage third-party security experts for independent assessments, if feasible.

Conclusion

If your organization has not yet adapted its cybersecurity measures for remote work scenarios, now is an opportune moment to initiate the process. It is essential to incorporate any new technologies that were introduced during the transition to remote work to ensure the CIA- Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability of your sensitive information. Protecting your data and systems while embracing the benefits of remote work is paramount, and updating your cyber policies is the first step towards achieving that goal. Read how Kalles Group defined the approach and Identity & access management policy for a premium global retail chain based in Seattle.