Your Information May Be at Risk
The greatest threats facing businesses with mobile workforces are the use of open access Wi-Fi and the lack of proper password protection on those devices. This is especially true when the employees use their personal smartphones, tablets, and laptops. OPEN ACCESS WI-FI Surprisingly, and despite repeated warnings, most people remain ignorant of the dangers posed by public Wi-Fi services found in cafes, libraries, airports, hotels, and the like. When people log onto the internet, surveys indicate they immediately begin checking email, posting on social media, and logging into their bank accounts. These activities include the transmission of passwords and other sensitive personal information. To protect against open access Wi-Fi, there are several things employees can do. First, they can create a virtual private network (VPN) which encrypts data transmitted over the network. Apps can be used to do this easily and securely on a smartphone or tablet. Employees can also make use of SSL connections by enabling the “Always use HTTPS” option on websites visited. This option can be found in the settings area of the
device. When in public, employees should turn off Wi-Fi automatically to avoid any open backdoors, even if they are not using the Wi-Fi. IMPROPER PASSWORD PROTECTION People are inundated with devices, sites, and applications that require passwords. Unfortunately, it is well-known that even among those educated about the risks, people routinely use the same password for the vast majority of their accounts. This means that if a malicious entity acquires one password, nearly all are comprised. The impact of such a breach can take months or even years to fully play out. Employees need to be required to have strong, unique passwords on and for their devices, sites, and applications. Strong passwords are longer (at least 8 characters), use combinations of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Companies need to create policies requiring such usage and actively coach employees in how to achieve compliance. There are numerous good applications now that help track and store passwords so personnel can use unique ones in all instances.
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January 15 – MLK Day. Offices closed. January 31 – Building Blocks Webinar: “Finding Possibility.” To attend, register at buildnotbilled.com.
February 6 – Networking luncheon at Havana Central. To attend, register at 516ads.com . February 9 – Long Island Business Forum Women’s Lunch. To attend, contact me. February 19 – Presidents’ Day. Offices closed. February 28 – Building Blocks Webinar: “Contracts 101.” To attend, register at buildnotbilled.com.
ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. The purpose of this newsletter is to provide information about Love Law Firm, PLLC’s qualifications and experience. The information provided in this newsletter does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Any prior results described in this newsletter do not guarantee a similar outcome. Love Law Firm, PLLC’s distribution of this newsletter is not intended to create, and will not create, an attorney-client relationship with you.
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