Cyber Security Best Practices
Review the best practices for security when sharing files, using your home WI-FI, surfing the web, using your mobile phone, and check the Clean Desk Policy
Table of Contents
File Sharing Best Practices
Timely sharing of information and files is critical for the efficiency of any organization. Whether small or big, remote or onsite, organizations must adopt file-sharing solutions that facilitate the smooth flow of work. And we have OneDrive and SharePoint for storage and sharing follow the tips for professional and secure way of file sharing
Do NOT add attachments to emails.
Share online files through OneDrive (personal storage or documents with limited scope or lifecycle) or SharePoint (official and team-wide documents with version control needed) to encourage collaboration, version control and avoid overloading mailboxes.
Use simple, concise, organized file names.
A document title should tell what the document is. Follow a strict name convention for similar documents according to Axios SOPPs.
Manage permissions according to the Least Privileged Access principles.
All files should be carefully shared. Only people who need access should have it.
Home Wi-Fi Security Tips
One of the simplest ways to ensure cybersecurity for remote workers is to strengthen your home Wi-Fi network's security. You can achieve this through some straightforward steps.
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Update the factory router password and make it complicated.
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Change the password frequently.
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Change the router’s admin credentials.
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Change the network name.
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Hide the network.
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Strengthen Wi-Fi encryption. Current standard is WPA2.
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Limit network access to specific MAC addresses for additional security
Internet Safety Quick Tips
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Never click or install anything based on a pop-up from a website
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“Trusted” websites can & have hosted malware, aka malvertising: Local news, WSJ, Forbes, ESPN, Yahoo, etc. Limit browsing to business relevant sites
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Avoid public: Wi-Fi, computers (hotels, libraries), charging, etc
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Pay Attention to Software Updates and security patches of your devices
Mobile Security Tips
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Keep your phone locked and make use of biometric features (Touch or Face ID). Use multifactor authentication whenever possible.
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Keep your device and all apps up to date.
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Do not jailbreak or root your phone.
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Encrypt your data and consider using a VPN.
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Install an anti-virus software and enable remote wiping.
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Be aware of your surroundings when on a call. You never know who might be overhearing.
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Avoid letting your mobile phone being used by children and disable in-app purchases.
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Beware of downloads and permissions your grant each application.
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Connect to secure Wi-Fi only or favour personal hotspots.
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Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use.
Clean Desk Policy
A clean desk policy involves removing any sensitive business information from your desk every day. This includes - USB sticks, notebooks, business cards and printed documents.
Do not print documents unless necessary. If printed, keep documents and folders under lock and key after use, or dispose of them in the office shredder.
Keep public areas (meeting rooms, reception desks, shared spaces) clear from any sensitive information. Erase any drawing boards and remove all papers and materials.
Always lock your computer when walking away, even to the bathroom or the coffee machine (close the laptop or use Win Key + L).
Do not leave any valuable (mobile, tablet, laptop, removable media if you are authorized to use one, security badge, …) unattended. Secure them under lock and key or take them with you.
Going Further
Please check our other Security related articles: Email Security, Password Best Practices & Other Cyber Security Threats.
A Digital University Session related to Security is also available as a recording: Security Best Practices.