Keeping Company Data Safe When Staff Work From Home: Myths vs. Reality

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Many business owners assume data is automatically safe because it’s “in the cloud” or because staff use a VPN. In reality, everyday habits at home like personal email, weak passwords, or shared family devices, often create the biggest risks.

Let’s clear up common myths and what to do instead.

Myth 1: If staff use a VPN, company data is secure.

  • Reality: VPNs protect the connection by encrypting data in transit. They don’t secure files once they’re on a device. A lost laptop or stolen password can still put data at risk. VPNs also vary in the level of protection and management features they provide.
  • What to do: Encrypt devices, enable MFA, and use remote wipe features.

Have more questions about VPN security?  Check out Why a VPN Isn’t Enough: Simple Security Layers for Remote Teams

Myth 2: Consumer apps like Gmail or Dropbox are good enough for business.

  • Reality: Using personal email or consumer file-sharing services creates blind spots IT cannot monitor. Company data stored or sent this way sits outside the oversight and protection of your company security.

Consumer-grade or free apps lack safeguards such as audit trails, access controls, and data retention policies. These gaps increase the risk of data loss or exposure.

  • What to do: Provide secure business-grade tools with visibility and access policies so your team can collaborate and work effectively without other tools.

Myth 3: Staff are careful, so family devices are fine.

  • Reality: Even careful staff cannot control everything that happens on a shared family computer. A child downloading a game or a partner sharing files can expose company data to malware or accidental leaks.
  • What to do: Ideally, provide company-issued devices that only staff use. If personal devices are necessary, the right policies and tools can still keep business data separate and secure without limiting staff productivity.

Myth 4: Home Wi-Fi is safe enough.

  • Reality: Many home routers still use default settings or outdated security. These weaknesses let attackers gain access to the home network and, through it, company systems.
  • What to do: Use a VPN together with SMB-ready firewall protections that extend enterprise-grade security to home offices.

Myths about remote work security give owners a false sense of safety. The reality is that a few simple practices prevent costly downtime and protect client trust. Horizon helps SMBs across Western Canada close these gaps with managed security solutions.