2.09.25

Cyber-Security Tips for a Distributed Workforce

Remote Work Cyber-risks

These cyber-security tips are a must read for companies that have remote and hybrid working models that have become a permanent fixture for many UK organisations. While this shift offers flexibility and productivity benefits, it also introduces new cyber-security risks. Specifically, employees working from home or on the move may unknowingly expose their organisations to cyber-threats through unsecured networks, use of personal devices or poor cyber-hygiene.

Making matters worse, many cyber-criminals actively target remote workers, exploiting reduced IT oversight and increased reliance on cloud-based tools to infiltrate systems and access sensitive data. Such incidents can lead to severe consequences, including data breaches, financial losses, regulatory penalties, and lasting reputational harm. This article highlights the key risks and provides practical strategies employers can use to protect their distributed workforce.

Understanding Remote Work Cyber-risks

Remote work environments often lack the same level of security as traditional office settings. Common vulnerabilities include:

• Unsecured Wi-Fi networks – Employees may connect to public or home networks lacking encryption or strong passwords.
• Use of personal devices – Personal laptops or smartphones may not have up-to-date security software or appropriate access controls.
• Lack of physical security – Devices used outside the office are more susceptible to theft or unauthorised access.
• Inconsistent software updates – Remote workers may delay or miss critical security patches.
• Reduced oversight – IT teams may have limited visibility into remote endpoints and user behaviour.

These factors can leave organisations exposed to a wide range of cyber-threats. Just a single vulnerability may be enough for cyber-criminals to compromise critical systems or access sensitive data.

Common Cyber-attack Methods Targeting Remote Workers

Threat actors may use a variety of techniques to exploit the specific vulnerabilities of remote work environments, including:

• Phishing emails – Remote employees rely on email and messaging platforms to stay connected. Threat actors may exploit this by sending convincing phishing emails that appear to come from colleagues or trusted services, tricking users into revealing credentials or downloading malware.
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) attacks – Many remote workers use RDP or similar tools to access office systems. If these connections are poorly secured or exposed to the Internet, attackers can exploit them to gain unauthorised access to corporate networks.
• Malware infections – Employees working outside the office may use personal or less secure devices, making them more susceptible to malware infections. Once installed, malware can spread across connected systems, encrypting files and disrupting operations.
• Credential stuffing – Remote workers often access multiple cloud-based services. If they reuse passwords across platforms, attackers can use stolen credentials from previous breaches to gain access to corporate accounts.
• Business Email Compromise (BEC) – With fewer face-to-face interactions, remote employees may be more likely to trust urgent email requests. Cyber-criminals may exploit this by impersonating executives or suppliers to deceive staff into transferring funds or sharing sensitive information.

Cyber-security Strategies for a Distributed Workforce

To reduce the risk of cyber-incidents, organisations should implement the following best practices:

• Use secure connections – Employers should require employees to use virtual private networks (VPNs) when accessing company systems remotely. VPNs encrypt internet traffic, protecting sensitive data from interception on unsecured networks, such as public Wi-Fi, and reducing the risk of unauthorised access.
• Enforce strong authentication – Employers should implement multi- factor authentication (MFA) to provide an additional security safeguard for employee logins. By requiring more than just a password—such as a code sent to a mobile device—MFA significantly reduces the chances of unauthorised access due to stolen or weak credentials.
• Provide company-managed devices – Employers should equip staff with devices that are configured and monitored by IT teams to ensure consistent security standards. This allows for better control over software installations, security settings, and updates, reducing the risk of malware infections and data breaches.
• Keep software updated – Employers should ensure that all devices used for work are regularly patched and updated with the latest security fixes. Outdated software often contains known vulnerabilities that cyber-criminals can exploit, so timely updates are essential for maintaining a secure environment.
• Limit access to sensitive data – Employers should apply the principle of least privilege, granting access to sensitive data only as needed based on job roles. This minimises the potential damage from compromised accounts or insider threats by ensuring that employees have access only to the data required for their specific job functions.3
• Educate employees – Employers should offer regular training to help staff recognise phishing attempts, secure their devices, and report suspicious activity. Human error is one of the leading causes of security breaches, so ongoing education is key to building a security-aware workforce.
• Develop a remote work policy – Employers should establish clear guidelines outlining cyber-security expectations and procedures for reporting incidents. A well-defined policy helps ensure consistency, accountability, and quick response in the event of a security issue, especially when employees work outside the traditional office environment.

Cyber-Security Tips – Conclusion

As remote work expands, so do the cyber-security risks. Employers must adopt strong security practices and train remote workers to protect sensitive data and systems. In addition, cyber- insurance can help offset the financial impact of incidents by covering data restoration and rectification costs, lost profits and other expenses.

Contact us today for further cyber-security tips and insurance solutions.

Information provided by Zywave with a contribution from Lisa Langley, Cert CII, Team Leader Professional Risks, Cox Mahon Ltd.