The rise of hybrid work has transformed the way businesses operate, blending the flexibility of remote work with the collaborative power of in-office activities. Hybrid work offers flexibility that can enhance productivity, improve work-life balance, and attract top talent. However, it also introduces complex security challenges, as employees access corporate networks and data from various devices and locations.
Ensuring robust, bulletproof security measures are crucial to protect sensitive data and maintain business continuity.
Key threats facing businesses in the hybrid work era:
Phishing Attacks: With employees often working outside the protected confines of the office, phishing attacks have become more prevalent and sophisticated.
Ransomware: The rise of ransomware has been alarming, with attackers targeting businesses of all sizes. The hybrid work model can increase vulnerabilities if endpoints are not adequately protected.
Data Breaches: Remote work can lead to increased risks of data breaches if proper security measures are not in place, particularly with the use of personal devices and unsecured networks
In a recent study by Cisco, it was found that 48% of businesses reported cybersecurity threats as a primary obstacle to improving workforce experiences1. 95% considered it highly important to have real-time intelligence to support workforce experiences2, and 57% indicated that it is highly challenging to provide consistent, seamless, location-agnostic support for employees3.
How to Work Securely in a Hybrid Environment
Use Secure Connections: Ensure all remote work is conducted over secure, encrypted connections. Utilise Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to protect data in transit.
Implement Strong Authentication: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a must to verify the identity of users accessing corporate resources.
Use Endpoint Protection: Deploy robust endpoint security solutions to safeguard devices against malware and other threats.
The Cisco Security Portfolio is a comprehensive suite of advanced solutions designed to protect every facet of your network and digital infrastructure.
Duo provides continuous identity security through robust MFA, ensuring that only verified users gain access to your systems.
Meraki offers a cloud-managed IT solution that simplifies network management and enhances security across distributed environments, making it ideal for hybrid work setups.
Firepower combines the proven capabilities of the Cisco ASA Firewall with industry-leading Sourcefire® threat intelligence, delivering superior threat and advanced malware protection in a single device.
Umbrella provides a secure internet gateway that extends protection beyond the firewall, blocking malicious domains, phishing attacks, and command-and-control callbacks at the DNS layer. Together, these products create a formidable defence, securing your network from endpoint to edge.
The hybrid work model is here to stay, so businesses must adapt to this new environment by implementing robust cybersecurity practices and staying vigilant against evolving threats. By fortifying your defences, you can ensure a secure and productive hybrid work environment, and empower employees to work confidently and efficiently, no matter where they are.
1, 2, 3 – Cisco Meraki Infographic: Supporting a Hybrid Workforce.
