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Eight simple (but important) things to remember about home office safety and security
According to Forbes magazine, 30 million U.S. workers are now working from home. National Home Office Safety and Security Week serves as a yearly reminder for home office workers to evaluate the safety of their work environment. From analyzing the security and privacy of your data to the safety of your office space, it is important to be prepared for anything.
Improve home office safety and security by following these tips:
- Be careful who you invite to your home office. You are the first and last line of defense against intruders or scammers targeting your business.
- Protect your office, by setting up a security system or keypad entry. Treat your office like any other workplace. Be sure to secure all physical entrances to your office including doors and windows.
- Keep your work and personal devices separate. If your personal device is hacked or compromised, this will help isolate the problem. It can help avoid the headaches and expenses associated with notifying your customers, regulatory fines, or lawsuits.
- Identify and eliminate fire hazards. Piles of paper records can be difficult to navigate, but they can also provide fuel if a fire breaks out. Be sure to keep your smoke alarm batteries fresh and a fire extinguisher handy in case of an emergency.
- Update all software and security. Keeping your computer software patched and mobile devices secured can be enough to deter hackers.
- Properly secure and organize wires and cords. Avoid tripping hazards and maintain a professional appearance during client meetings.
- Use a shredder when disposing of sensitive and confidential information. Treat yourself to a confetti-type shredder if you do not have one already. Confetti shredders are among the most secure ways to destroy sensitive documents without hiring a commercial shredding company.
- Store all files in a secure location. Invest in a fireproof safe for physical documents and encrypted hard drives to protect valuable business files.
Finally, one of the most important tips to ensure that your home office is safeguarded is to have it insured. For more information on insurance for your home office, contact your Virginia Farm Bureau insurance agent.