Alert Priority MODERATE: Cyber security is essential when preparing for COVID-19

13 March, 2020 by Andrew 0

13 March 2020

Businesses around the country are looking at ways to protect their staff and vulnerable members of the community from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Instructing their staff to work remotely may be one way of minimising the spread of the virus. However, remote work arrangements can have security implications and cybercriminals may attempt to take advantage of this. The cyber risks of flexible work arrangements could include malware infection, unauthorised access, data security, and unsecured devices used by staff.

It’s important that businesses and their staff ensure that remote access to business networks are secure so they aren’t vulnerable and business information isn’t exposed.

Ensuring good cyber security measures now is the best way to address the cyber threat.

The ASD’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has produced some great advice to help businesses stay secure from cyber threats whilst managing a remote workforce: //www.cyber.gov.au/news/cyber-security-essential-when-preparing-covid-19.

Stay Smart Online has more advice on protecting your business assets including mobiles and tablets: //www.staysmartonline.gov.au/protect-your-business.

To stay up to date on the latest online threats and how to respond, sign up to the Stay Smart Online Alert Service, www.staysmartonline.gov.au/alert-service.

The information provided here is of a general nature. Everyone’s circumstances are different. If you require specific advice you should contact your local technical support provider.

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Disclaimer
This information has been prepared by the ACSC. It was accurate and up to date at the time of publishing.
This information is general information only and is intended for use by private individuals and small to medium sized businesses. If you are concerned about a specific cyber security issue you should seek professional advice.
The Commonwealth and all other persons associated with this advisory accept no liability for any damage, loss or expense incurred as a result of the provision of this information, whether by way of negligence or otherwise.
Nothing in this information (including the listing of a person or organisation or links to other web sites) should be taken as an endorsement of a particular product or service.
Please note that third party views or recommendations included in this information do not reflect the views of the Commonwealth, or indicate its commitment to a particular course of action. The Commonwealth also cannot verify the accuracy of any third party material included in this information.