The US National Security Agency (NSA) released a guide with best practices designed to help remote workers secure their home networks.
On order to defend themselves against cybersecurity threats the advisory recommends users to ensure their system, software and devices are up to date; back up data and disconnect devices from the internet when connection is not needed; limit administration to internal network only; implement WPA3 or WPA2 on the wireless network; use firewalls and security software; protect passwords; limit use of the administrator account, and exercise secure user habits.
“To minimize ransomware risks, back up data on external drives or portable media. Disconnect and securely store external storage when not in use. Minimize charging mobile devices with computers; use the power adapter instead. Avoid connecting devices to public charging stations. Leave computers in sleep mode to enable downloading and installing updates automatically. Regularly reboot computers to apply the updates. Turn off devices or disconnect their Internet connections when they will not be used for an extended time, such as when going on vacation,” NSA says.
In addition, the advisory provides best practices on online behavior, like avoiding opening attachments or links from unknown email; regularly updating browser; taking precautions on social media sites, and using multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible.