With Covid changing the way Practices operate, they need to seriously consider adding security measures when moving to new operating models, including working from home.

Since the start of the pandemic, the number of cybercrime related incidents across New Zealand has surged, causing an estimated total of NZ$108 million in financial loses to businesses across the country. And this amount is still climbing.  

With many businesses and Practices moving to new operating models, including remote working, cybercriminals have used it as a viable opportunity to target individuals and Practices by launching a range of scams, phishing and DDos attacks on online users.  

Practices, therefore, need to focus on cyber security more than ever if they are to change their operating model successfully and safely in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

There are several actions that Practices can take to protect themselves online including updating all software with the latest security upgrades and patches, installing and updating firewalls on home services and using technology to enable password protection, such as 2-Factor Authentication programs.

In addition, it is important to educate other home users – such as children – on the risks of scams, malware and phishing attacks that could infect devices. It is also important to protect Practice communications by using a VPN or another secure communication method when connecting to the Practice over Public WiFi services.

I.T Star’s key security recommendations for Practices working from home:

1. Always lock your device when it is not in use
2. Use strong passwords using characters, number and symbols
3. Set up two-factor authentication for an extra layer of password protection
4. Use a VPN to secure your privacy and encrypt all your internet traffic
5. Install firewalls and correctly configure them as per your system requirements
6. Update all software and operating systems with the latest security updates and patches
7. Keep all anti-virus and anti-malware software enabled and updated
8. Ensure routers and do not use default passwords and credentials
9. Do not store client data without adequate security
10. Ensure backups are done regularly
11. Use encrypted communications
12. Update filtering for spam and malware on email systems
13. Keep staff informed of all incident response procedures as they apply to remote working
14. Ensure that administrators or privileged users are aware and follow all security processes and procedures

For further information contact I.T. Star on 021 240 1483.