One way or another, technology is part of just about everything. It's become so commonplace that most people don't even think about it anymore--and while that leads to great things, it also creates a few problems. The truth is that when you use machines and devices all the time, it's too easy to fall into bad tech habits--habits that can be bad news for your business.
That's why today's tech tip is all about using devices and software in more mindful ways. Let's brush up on a few simple security solutions you can implement right now!
Common Tech Pitfalls
The first step in choosing the right security solutions is to understand where you might be going wrong. Of course, that can be tricky when so many bad habits are part of our everyday lives.
Here are a few common tech pitfalls. Are you guilty of these small but potentially catastrophic mistakes?
Getting lazy about passwords
Do you use the same password for every work account? Do you create passwords that are a single word instead of an entire phrase or a random string of characters? These lazy habits may seem small, but they can be highly damaging to your company's overall security policy--especially if you're not the only one who does this (and you probably aren't).
Forgetting to proofread
Proofreading is a big deal. It can keep you from sending emails to the wrong people, accidentally including links to sensitive data, or simply including an embarrassing typo. However, it's all too easy to get busy at work and forget to proofread digital communications before you send them.
Using unauthorized apps
With the rise of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies, employees often have access to any apps they've installed on their personal phones or laptops. These apps are fine for other uses--but at work, they're usually not safe or reliable enough to handle important data.
Enabling distractions
Technology is a good thing when used in the right ways--but if it's not, it can easily become a distraction or even a frustration. If you let yourself get too wrapped up in the tech world, you probably need a little help stepping back and finding better ways to leverage your devices.
Get Tech Smart with Our Security Solutions
Be honest: Did any of those pitfalls hit a little too close to home? If so, don't worry--we all have our digital Achilles' heel. Luckily, there are simple security solutions--so sit back, relax, and brush up on a few tips for responsible and safe technology use in the workplace!
Try managed services.
Technology can be a pain. It's difficult to manage, protect, and utilize--not to mention the costs associated with maintenance and upgrades.
The truth is that most companies just can't do it alone.
Managed IT services and other security solutions allow you to choose a partner in tech, giving you all the resources, support, and guidance you need to make better decisions. You can have as much or as little help as you want, which means there's no pressure--just simple, reliable direction in a tangled tech world.
Create clear policies.
Clear policies are like a roadmap for technology use. Without a policy to rely on, employees are left to guess what's safe, what's efficient, and how they should operate in your digital world. The good news is that a tech policy doesn't have to be long, complex, or strict; it just needs to help eliminate confusion and offer a few guidelines for what works and what doesn't.
Be mindful.
It might feel odd to "be mindful" about technology, but it can make a huge difference. For example, spend time thinking about your digital communication habits--do you send emails to the right people at the right times, or do you tend to clutter people's inboxes because you aren't sure who needs to be included in the conversation? Is there a way to cut down on the number of emails you send by using digital chats for low-priority discussions? Could you have quick video calls instead of long, complex email chains?
However you relate to tech, remember to take a step back and ask yourself if these solutions are making life easier or if they're creating new problems.
Brush up on the latest threats.
Security threats are always changing, which means your tech approach should change, too. Do a little research to find out what those pesky cybercriminals are up to these days, then make sure you're one step ahead. For example, you might learn all about the latest phishing techniques and review recent spam emails to use as learning opportunities for yourself and your teams.
Remember to put down the devices.
Sometimes, you just need to have a conversation face-to-face. That's especially true if the topic is sensitive or potentially stressful--but even if you're just chatting with a work friend, it can sometimes be a huge relief just to put down the screens. Plus, the less time you spend on a device, the fewer digital security problems you'll come into contact with!
It's easy to fall into tech pitfalls. However, with simple security solutions like these, you're well on your way to responsible and safe technology use in the workplace.
Looking for more tech tips? Want to learn about security solutions like managed IT? Contact us today!
