Security First for a Hybrid Workforce

How to Build a Security-First Culture That Empowers Your Hybrid Workforce

Tools are only as good as their users. This philosophy should guide you as the world adapts to hybrid work, with all its complexities since COVID-19. While having robust security controls and tools is essential, they are only effective if your workforce is engaged and compliant. A Ponemon survey of IT security leaders revealed that 62% of remote employees do not closely follow security protocols. That’s just one challenge. Hybrid working introduces new logistical and monitoring issues: some employees are remote, others are in the office, and some may use co-working spaces or work in rotating shifts. Building a security-first culture in this environment is no small task.

Develop a Comprehensive Cybersecurity Strategy

To empower your hybrid workforce, you need a cybersecurity strategy that includes

and supports everyone. Here are the key components:

Perimeter-Less Technology

With employees working from multiple locations, your security approach must evolve. Some may connect via unsecured home internet or use personal devices. Upgrade your security systems and controls to suit the demands of a hybrid environment. Adopt perimeter less solutions like cloud based SaaS apps, secure VPNs, identity and access management tools, patch management, unified endpoint management, and backup and recovery solutions. Choose applications that support Zero Trust architecture, which requires every access attempt inside or outside your network to be verified.

Documented Policies and Procedures

Without clearly documented security policies and procedures, enforcement becomes difficult and staff engagement suffers. For example, if you don’t have a written Acceptable Use Policy for your VPN, employees might misuse it. Identify critical IT policies (such as change management, remote access, and incident response), document them, and share them with your team. Keep these documents current, accessible, and review them regularly so employees know what’s expected and why.

Security Awareness Training

Employees should be your first line of defense against cyberattacks. This is even more crucial in a hybrid setup. Use engaging and interactive training programs to reduce human error, build good habits, and raise awareness about current threats. Training should cover best practices and SOPs, and include simulations against phishing, ransomware, brute-force, and social engineering attacks. Reinforce learning with regular tests and simulated attacks.

Communication and Support Channels

Clear, accessible communication and support channels are vital for early threat detection and response. Ensure every employee knows how to report threats, whom to contact, and what steps to follow. Set guidelines for approved communication tools. Discourage the use of personal apps like WhatsApp and Facebook for official purposes, as these can jeopardize company data and compliance.

Friction-Free Systems and Strategies

Prioritize user experience and efficiency when implementing security measures. If a security tool (such as antivirus) slows down workstations, employees might disable it, undermining your efforts. Security should not hinder productivity. Ensure your security systems integrate smoothly with employees’ workflows, so following security best practices feels natural and not burdensome.

Next Steps: Creating a Security-First Culture

Building a security first culture in a hybrid workforce is challenging. The shift to hybrid work adds new complexities and demands skilled staff, round the clock support, and specialized tools. If you’re ready to take this step, we can help ensure the proper implementation and ongoing management of your IT, cybersecurity, and data security controls.

Sign up for a consultation to learn more about how we can help.