Managing IT security for staff working from home means ensuring your business's data and systems remain safe even when employees are outside the traditional office environment. This involves protecting devices, networks, and access points that may be more vulnerable when used remotely. Without proper controls, remote working can increase risks such as unauthorised access, data breaches, or malware infections.
Why this matters for UK SMEs
For small and medium-sized businesses in the UK, a security incident caused by remote working can lead to costly downtime, loss of sensitive customer or employee data, and damage to your reputation. It can also complicate compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, which require appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect personal data. Ensuring secure remote access helps maintain staff productivity and customer trust while reducing the risk of fines or regulatory scrutiny.
A typical scenario
Consider a 50-employee SME that shifted to remote working during the pandemic. Initially, staff used personal laptops and unsecured Wi-Fi networks, leading to a phishing attack that compromised an employee's login. The attacker accessed company emails and sensitive client information, causing a data breach and operational disruption. After engaging a managed IT provider, the business implemented multi-factor authentication (MFA), enforced company-managed devices with up-to-date security patches, and set up a secure virtual private network (VPN) for remote access. These steps reduced risk and improved audit readiness for Cyber Essentials Plus.
Practical checklist for managing remote IT security
- Ask your IT provider: How do you secure remote connections? Do you enforce MFA and endpoint security? What is your incident response process for remote breaches?
- Review access controls: Check who has remote access and whether permissions follow the principle of least privilege.
- Device management: Ensure remote devices are company-managed or meet security standards, including regular patching and antivirus updates.
- Network security: Use VPNs or secure gateways to encrypt remote traffic, especially on public or home Wi-Fi.
- Backup and recovery: Confirm that remote work data is regularly backed up to secure, centralised locations.
- Staff training: Provide ongoing cybersecurity awareness focused on phishing, password hygiene, and safe remote working practices.
- Logging and monitoring: Implement logging of remote access and unusual activity to detect potential threats early.
- Supplier and vendor checks: Include remote security requirements in supplier questionnaires and contracts to ensure third parties follow good practice.
Managing IT security for remote staff is an ongoing process that requires clear policies, technical controls, and regular review. Speaking with a trusted managed IT provider or IT advisor can help you assess your current setup, identify gaps, and implement practical solutions tailored to your business size and sector. This approach supports compliance, protects your data, and keeps your team productive wherever they work.