Minister Bruton Publishes Cyber Security Guidance on Working from Home

New Guidance sets out to protect those working from home from hacking and fraud

The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Mr. Richard Bruton T.D. is publishing guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), on working from home securely.

The recent COVID-19 situation has suddenly presented IT personnel, and indeed all users, with a set of cyber security challenges that, whilst not unique, are being experienced on a significantly larger scale than ever before. In this context the NCSC has created new guidance which sets out how people working from home as part of the fight against Covid-19 can protect themselves from cyber attacks while staying connected. Speaking today, the Minister said:

“Now more than ever, people are relying on technology to stay connected. This exposes you to risks which may be unfamiliar. This advise explains the risks of hacking and fraud and how you can protect yourself against them.”

Working securely from home The advice explains how to secure your home office from cyber-related threats, including guidance on:

• How to avoid email phishing (including vishing) and how to protect your business email;
• Using your home Wi-Fi securely;
• Maintaining strong password practices;
• Using work devices at home;
• Using personal devices for work purposes;
• Securing Virtual/Remote Meetings.

The National Cybersecurity Centre today urged users to be vigilant, check sources, details and context and report suspicious activity to info@ncsc.gov.ie, your bank or local Garda Station immediately. The full guidance from the NCSC can be found here, with more important advice and tips for staying safe online available at BeSafeOnline.gov.ie.