Hybrid working isn't a trend – it's the new normal. Remote workers are accessing systems from home offices, co-working spaces and cafés. As more and more of us work away from the office, having strong and secure protection in place becomes critical.
The ONS found that more than a quarter of us are working from home. The average worker saved over 56 minutes commuting, with the majority of workers feeling happier and more productive. Remote working means that the devices we use, the networks we connect to, and the data we share are more exposed than ever before.
Anti-virus software operates as a critical first line of defence, but it can't provide total protection. Whether you're managing a distributed team or a group of solo workers, here's the anti-virus software and security solutions to keep you and your team safe.
Why remote work has changed security
Cybersecurity was easier to manage when work (and workers) were confined to the office. IT teams could install enterprise-grade firewalls, monitor networks and manage system access daily, 9-5.
Today, workers are spread out, using a mixture of company and personal devices, private and public Wi-Fi networks, and sharing files across cloud platforms. Each new location, login and session is a security risk and a potential entry point for attackers. Companies need to ensure the right software and protections are in place to have confidence in their security.
Large organisations often use mobile device management solutions (MDM). These locked-down laptops and tablets are the gold standard for remote security, but are expensive and complex to implement.
While SMEs don't want, or need, to implement an MDM strategy, anti-virus and security software is an intelligent investment.
What anti-virus software does (and doesn't do)
Anti-virus software is designed to detect, block, and remove all types of malicious software, including viruses, trojans, ransomware, malware and more.
The software works in the background, scanning files, monitoring behaviour and flagging suspicious activity.
Anti-virus software, like Kaspersky, Norton Small Business and AVG Business Security includes:
- Real-time threat detection using machine learning
- Email and phishing protection
- Safe browsing tools to block malicious URLs
- Cloud-based updates to defend against the latest threats
It can also provide email protection, internet protection and more. While Companies can't expect anti-virus software to do everything, they need to ensure anti-virus software is one part of a comprehensive security plan for their remote workers.
Anti-virus is just one piece of the puzzle
Anti-virus software is reactive. It responds if and when it identifies a threat. It will kick in when a threat is detected, but not before. However, anti-virus software can’t protect against a weak or compromised password, fix a misconfigured firewall, or stop someone carelessly clicking on a dodgy email.
If your security strategy starts and ends with anti-virus software, you're exposed. Here’s what you should be thinking about next:
- Device management: Whether it's a company laptop or a personal device, endpoint security matters. Make sure all devices have encryption, remote wipe capabilities, and strong authentication protocols in place. Apple devices, for example, can be remotely tracked and wiped using the Find My capabilities. RemoteWipe can be installed on Microsoft devices (although it's a little more challenging.)
- Network security: VPNs help, but they're not bulletproof. Encourage employees to avoid public Wi-Fi, update home router firmware, and use secure DNS services for added protection.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA): It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce unauthorised access.
- Regular software updates: Patches aren't just performance tweaks; they fix known vulnerabilities. Set systems to auto-update where possible and regularly check, especially if there are known vulnerabilities.
- Cybersecurity training: Even the best tools can't stop human error. Equip your team with the knowledge to spot phishing scams, avoid dodgy downloads, and report suspicious activity fast.
Sense check your remote work security
Security doesn't need to be expensive or complex. A lot of it is about common sense and ensuring systems are updated and tested.
Companies can do some practical things to improve security, including running regular tests and checks to ensure all software is in place. It's also important that staff know how to access help if they are victims of a cyber-attack. This can reduce the risk of it spreading and getting worse.
Here are our recommendations for what you can do today to ensure better digital security:
- Audit your devices: Is anti-virus software installed and active on every device?
- Do you have details of all remote workers: Can you say with confidence who has access to all your systems? If not, ensure you do.
- Check your passwords: Are they strong, unique, and stored securely? Do staff understand the importance of strong passwords and the need to regularly check and change them?
- Review your backup strategy: Where are your key files stored? Are they safe if a device is lost or encrypted?
- Run some desktop exercises: Can your team spot a scam? Do they know what to do if they think their system has been compromised?
These short exercises are simple ways to test how strong your remote worker security is. These tests (and any others you might want to do) are about embedding cybersecurity into the way you work. Remote workers need the confidence and clarity to know how to protect themselves and your business. Exercises let this show you're supporting them, but that you take security seriously.
Stay on top of security
The biggest threat to your security is complacency. Don't just install anti-virus software. Instead, try to build a security strategy that works everywhere and for everyone. Continually check, challenge and improve your remote-work security to ensure it's performing.
