Cyber Exposures While Working from Home
As a result of the current conditions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the recently extended “safer-at-home” government orders, many companies’ employees are working remotely from home. For some, this could be the first time managing employees telecommuting, creating even more obstacles than anticipated. Amidst the many challenges and operational adjustments, organizations also can face a wide range of possible cybersecurity exposures.
During these times, companies need to ensure their employees continue to follow safe cyber practices. Many companies who are not able to provide their employees with equipment must trust them to use their own devices and log into important accounts using remote access applications. According to cyber liability experts, over 4,000 domains have been registered by cyber criminals related to “corona” and/or “covid”.¹ It can be tempting to click on a link in your inbox describing a new vaccine for COVID-19 or to buy special masks or other personal protective equipment (PPE) that have become scarce. However, these phishing scams are ways that cyber criminals can obtain personal or secure information, or even hack into your company’s network.
Other recently reported hacks regarding COVID-19 can be found in the links below:
- Hospital for Special Surgery (HHS)
- Health and Human Services Department
- Princess Cruises
- Zoom
Protect Yourself & Your Company
Although there are many risk exposures out there, we want to make sure this does not happen to you. Here is a quick guide to how you can protect yourself from cyber attacks while working from home:
We want to make sure you and your business remain protected. Cyber liability coverage is available, and we are more than happy to provide you with a quote. If you currently have a cyber policy, now is a great time to review your policy and make sure you do not have any gaps in coverage. Contact us today if you have any questions, would like a comparison quote, or would like your agent to go over your policy with you.
¹Evolve MGA, “Client Advsiory: COVID-19 Cyber Attacks,” 2020.
Additional sources: Business Insider, “Surge in working from home raises cyber exposure issues,” March 2020.