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​Securing the enterprise? Discover the art of workplace communications protection

Most office communication technology is connected to external networks, such as mobile phones, or web-based instant messaging platforms.

Most office communication technology is connected to external networks, such as mobile phones, or web-based instant messaging platforms.

Consequently, this means that many organisations face the prospect of an external information breach, unauthorised interception, or data loss.

“Mobile collaboration and communication solutions such as Microsoft SharePoint, Yammer and Microsoft Skype for Business let organisations work together in a more timely and efficient way, accessing the information they need, when and where they need it,” says Mark Blower, National Business Manager for Networks and Security, Empired.

“Unfortunately, like any other connected desktop or internet-based application, such solutions can pose security vulnerabilities unless certain precautions are taken.”

Going forward, Blower recommends six ways to help keep workplace communications secure:

1. Use secure networks

Unsecured public networks can let anyone drop in and intercept wireless communications between a business device and a Wi-Fi router.

“It is safest to use secure networks for business communications and even sensitive personal activities, such as online banking,” Blower adds.

2. Don’t re-use login credentials

Given the recommended complexity of today’s passwords, Blower believes it is understandable that people choose to recycle them for different accounts.

“This is convenient, but if one account is hacked, it makes it much easier to gain unauthorised access to others,” he adds.

3. Use two-factor authentication

Not all private credentials remain private.

“If a password is cracked, a single-password platform can be compromised,” Blower adds.

“Two-factor authentication can prevent this from happening, requiring an entirely separate piece of secure information before granting access.”

4. Use all-in-one solutions where possible

Blower believes a unified communications solution that combines audio, video, and collaboration functions in a single platform protected by identity and access management features can give businesses flexibility without the risks associated with standalone unsecured communications platforms.

5. Encrypt

While encryption is becoming more commonplace among IP-based communications applications, Blower says it is yet to feature on all platforms.

“Be sure to use one of the increasing number of unified communications platforms that now come with encryption to protect sensitive information no matter who gets their hands on it,” he adds.

6. Monitor and report

While having the best security in place it is necessary to have the visibility to examine potential threats and vulnerabilities that are present in the network, Blower believes it is only with a centralised security management platform that early detection of malicious activity can prevent the risk of security breaches.