Clean Up Your Clicks

Remote Work, Real Risks

Remote work is here to stay—with over 40% of U.S. employees working from home full- or part-time as of 2025. While it offers flexibility and convenience, it also opens the door to new cybersecurity challenges. According to a 2024 IBM report, over 60% of data leaks in remote setups were linked to poor cyber hygiene, such as unsecured Wi-Fi or outdated software. Cybercriminals know that remote workers are often the weakest link in a company’s defense. That is why practicing good cyber hygiene at home is not optional—it is essential.

Home Is Not a Safe Bubble

At home, it is easy to fall into casual digital habits—like skipping updates, reusing passwords, or working from the kitchen table on an unsecured device. In one real-world case, an employee of a marketing firm unknowingly exposed client data by accessing sensitive files over a public Wi-Fi network at a coffee shop. It only took one session to compromise the device. Hybrid and remote workers often juggle personal and work devices, which can blur the lines of data protection. Without the safety net of corporate firewalls or IT support down the hall, every click counts.

Secure Habits Start With You

The good news? Remote workers can take straightforward steps to improve their cyber hygiene. Start by securing your home Wi-Fi with a strong password and encryption settings (WPA3 is ideal). Always enable multi-factor authentication on work accounts. Keep operating systems, browsers, and security software updated—set them to auto-update when possible. Use a company-provided VPN or a trusted virtual private network to encrypt traffic. Avoid using personal email or cloud storage for work tasks, and never leave work devices unattended in public or shared spaces.

Make It a Daily Routine

Think of cyber hygiene like brushing your teeth—it is simple, routine, and highly effective. Develop daily habits such as locking your screen when you step away, checking URLs before clicking, and reporting suspicious emails to your IT team. Separate work and personal devices when possible, and regularly back up important files in case of a ransomware attempt. If you work in a hybrid setting, avoid using unsecured USB drives and stay alert for phishing attempts disguised as IT support or login prompts. Good digital hygiene is a team effort, and it starts with consistent, small actions.

Keep Work Secure at Home

Remote and hybrid work environments do not have to be cybersecurity minefields. With the right habits, tools, and awareness, employees can turn their home office into a secure extension of the workplace. Practicing cyber hygiene is not about perfection—it is about prevention, preparation, and peace of mind.