Imagine the following
Saanvi, a project manager at one organization, often travels for work, relying on airports and hotels for the internet. But one day, in a rush to finish a project, she connects to the internet through an unsecured network. Saanvi has no idea that someone stole her usernames and passwords until a friend calls and asks why she keeps sending her spammy messages over social media.
Luckily, Saanvi’s hack was only embarrassing, not dangerous. She can easily fix the problem by creating stronger passwords for her social media accounts. But a lax attitude toward internet safety can lead to worse consequences.
What if the hacker had stolen Saanvi’s banking information or her client’s sensitive work materials?
So before you hop on the hotel Wi-Fi, think about the safety of your internet connectivity. Public Wi-Fi is a great resource—as long as you know how to stay safe while you’re connected. Without safeguards, widely accessible public Wi-Fi gives cybercriminals more opportunities to hack into your devices and steal sensitive information.
In this section, you’ll learn how to weigh the risks of using public Wi-Fi. You’ll also explore how to prepare for a safe connection and best practices to use once you’re connected, wherever you are in the world.
Read the following
Select each tab below to read about the remote requirements and policies Oracle Cerner has in place.
Table of Contents
VPN Expactations
VPN is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) that allows employees to securely connect to Oracle Cerner’s network while off-campus.
VPN allows you to create a secure connection from one of its servers that will disguise your original identity and location. Thus, you can carry out all of your activities from that remote server, protecting you from hackers and data snoopers who are on the hunt for unprotected public Wi-Fi users that they can take advantage of.
It is NOT recommended to connect to a public network like coffee shops and airports, but if you need to connect to these networks, make sure that you are connected to the VPN to ensure security. Establishing a remote connection that provides a secure and encrypted communication channel helps minimize data loss, misuse, or manipulation.
Proctect Credentials
There are many websites on the internet, but not all of them are safe. Some sites are marked with “HTTPS,” which indicates that these sites provide a secure connection to transfer data. While sites marked with this acronym ensure complete data encryption to their websites, it does not provide any level of safety for the storage or use of the data on the site itself once received.
Avoid clicking on ambiguous or unknown links, as it may be linked to malware. While you are using public Wi-Fi, the chances of receiving manipulated invitation links increases, so make sure to be extra cautious while establishing any connections.
Public Wi-Fi is risky, but this doesn’t mean that you have to avoid it completely. You can take advantage of this benefit without risking your security by using the right security tools, such as VPN and Duo, and maintaining updated antivirus software. Also, you must be extra vigilant about links you click on and sites you visit while on public Wi-Fi.
Secure WI-FI
While working from home, it is important to take steps that will ensure your home network is secure to protect both yourself and Oracle Cerner. From a regulatory compliance standpoint, sampled users may be asked to share the secure configuration of the home router, if needed.
The following are mandated configuration settings:
- Change your Wi-Fi name to something other than the default and secure it with a strong password.
- Keep your router software up-to-date and restart your router at least once a month.
- Change the default administrator login on your router.
- Disable remote access or remote administration on your Wi-Fi router.
- Wi-Fi Encryption – The use of home networks and requirements/restrictions on the configuration of wireless network services including encryption (AES WPA2 at a minimum).
For more information regarding how to complete the best practices above, contact your internet service provider or reference resources provided by your router manufacturer.
Hybrid Working Expectations
Ensure that your remote workspace enables full confidentiality and prevents unauthorized persons from having access or visibility to any sensitive information.
Associates must follow the same practices that are required at a Cerner designated location, such as locking your screen when stepping away from your device, in addition to the following;
- Perform all work activities on an organization device.
- Establish a remote connection that requires a secure and encrypted communication channel to minimize data loss, misuse, or manipulation (e.g., VPN).
- Maintain up-to-date security patches and anti-malware protection on your device and always safeguard Oracle Cerner information and client data.
Best Practices for Remote Communication
Effective communication is essential for remote teams to collaborate successfully. Here are some best practices to enhance remote communication:
1. Choose the Right Communication Tools
Select communication tools that align with your team’s needs. Platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom offer features for messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing. Familiarize yourself with these tools to streamline communication.
2. Establish Clear Communication Guidelines
Set clear expectations for communication within your team. Define response times, preferred channels for different types of communication, and guidelines for sharing sensitive information. Clarity eliminates confusion and ensures everyone is on the same page.
3. Schedule Regular Video Meetings
Video meetings foster a sense of connection among remote team members. Schedule regular video conferences to discuss projects, share updates, and engage in face-to-face interactions. Video meetings humanize remote work and enhance collaboration.
Conclusion
As the world continues to embrace remote work, prioritizing security and effective communication is paramount. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the remote work landscape with confidence and ensure a secure and productive work experience.
Remember that remote work is a dynamic field, and staying informed about the latest security threats and communication trends is essential. Adaptability and vigilance will help you thrive in the ever-evolving world of remote work.