Allowing your employees to access company systems and data from outside the office is essential in today's flexible work environment. However, setting up remote access without proper security measures can expose your business to cyber threats like data breaches, ransomware, and unauthorised access. Secure remote access means giving staff the ability to work remotely while protecting your sensitive information and IT infrastructure from these risks.
Why secure remote access matters for Australian SMBs
For small and mid-sized businesses in Australia, a security lapse from remote access can lead to costly downtime, loss of customer trust, and potential breaches of privacy regulations. For example, if an employee's device is compromised while connected remotely, attackers could gain entry to your network, steal data, or disrupt operations. This not only impacts productivity but can also damage your reputation and lead to compliance issues with data protection laws.
A practical example
Consider a 50-person accounting firm in Melbourne that recently shifted to hybrid work. Without secure remote access, one employee's laptop was infected with malware after connecting via an unsecured Wi-Fi network at a café. The malware spread through the network, encrypting client files and halting work for several days. After consulting with their IT provider, the firm implemented a Virtual Private Network (VPN) with multi-factor authentication (MFA) and endpoint security. This setup ensured that only authorised, verified devices could connect securely, preventing further incidents.
Checklist for setting up secure remote access
- Ask your IT provider: What remote access methods do you recommend (e.g., VPN, remote desktop with MFA)? How do you enforce strong authentication?
- Review access controls: Are user permissions limited to only necessary systems and data? Can access be revoked quickly if needed?
- Check device security: Are employees' devices protected with updated antivirus, firewalls, and encryption?
- Implement multi-factor authentication: Require a second verification step beyond passwords for all remote logins.
- Use encrypted connections: Ensure all remote sessions use strong encryption protocols to protect data in transit.
- Monitor and log access: Can your IT provider track who accessed what and when, to detect suspicious activity?
- Train staff: Do employees understand safe remote work practices, such as avoiding public Wi-Fi or using company-approved devices?
Setting up secure remote access is a critical step to protect your business as flexible work becomes the norm. A trusted managed IT provider can assess your current setup, recommend appropriate technologies, and help implement policies that balance security with ease of use. Taking these steps proactively can reduce cyber risks, maintain productivity, and safeguard your company's reputation.