As we enter 2024, hybrid working continues to present both opportunities and challenges for organizations looking to enable flexible work while also protecting sensitive data. In my role as a cybersecurity expert, I see three key data security challenges that organizations should prepare for this year:
1. Increased Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks
With employees splitting time between home and office environments, there are more potential attack vectors for cybercriminals to exploit. Phishing and social engineering attacks aimed at stealing login credentials or getting employees to install malware are likely to intensify.
Some strategies organizations can use to combat this include:
- Implementing multifactor authentication for remote access and email accounts to add an extra layer of security.
- Conducting regular phishing simulations to test employees’ ability to identify and report suspicious emails. Additional awareness training can be provided to those who fail the simulations.
- Using email security tools like DMARC, DKIM, and SPF to authenticate legitimate emails and block phishing attempts.
2. Data Exfiltration via Personal Devices
With remote and hybrid work, more employees are accessing corporate networks and data from personal devices like smartphones, tablets, and home computers. This increases the risk of unauthorized data exfiltration.
Steps organizations can take include:
- Enforcing robust mobile device management (MDM) to control how corporate data is accessed on personal devices. MDM can remotely wipe data if a device is lost or compromised.
- Implementing network access controls to restrict which devices can connect to corporate resources. Devices should be checked for security controls like full-disk encryption before being granted access.
- Monitoring usage patterns to detect abnormal behavior, like an employee suddenly downloading terabytes of data. This could indicate malicious exfiltration.
3. Vulnerabilities in Collaboration Tools
Remote collaboration tools like video conferencing, file sharing, and project management systems have expanded the corporate attack surface. Cybercriminals are actively probing these tools for vulnerabilities.
Recommended strategies include:
- Patching and updating collaboration software frequently to close security gaps. Automating patch deployment is optimal.
- Vetting software vendors carefully to choose enterprise-grade tools with robust security controls baked in.
- Limiting oversharing of sensitive data in collaboration platforms, like financial documents in cloud storage. Access should be restricted.
Preparing for the Road Ahead
Hybrid work is here to stay, so organizations must continually adapt their data security strategies. By implementing robust technical controls and elevating employee awareness, companies can enable flexibility while also safeguarding critical information. With proactive preparation, data security in 2024 and beyond can remain a strategic priority, not a roadblock.
