Cybersecurity in the Pandemic: Looking to the Future

The pandemic's impact on every corner of our lives cannot be overstated. From mental health considerations to picking up groceries, each aspect of our daily lives has been affected. It is also likely that the way we work has been forever changed and the way businesses operate has shifted considerably.

We reviewed some of the lessons we can take away from the ongoing pandemic in a recent blog. In this blog, we will examine what these lessons might mean for the future of the technology landscape.

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Expansion of Work from Home

When the pandemic initially hit, businesses in nearly every industry were forced to pivot to continue operating in some capacity. For many, this meant a shift to having employees work from home where it was possible. Companies quickly set up systems and processes that would allow business to continue as smoothly as possible. Technology managed services providers (MSPs) became integral in this shift and will continue to serve as an invaluable partner moving forward.

Operating remotely allowed businesses of all sizes to continue to function in a time of uncertainty. Additionally, companies realized cost savings on overhead as physical spaces were not necessary for everyday use. Employees who can work from home not only feel safe but are realizing a high degree of productivity. Now that companies and employees have seen that remote work is possible and effective on many levels, it has the potential to set the stage for a great expansion in remote working policies.

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Proactive Data and Network Security Measures

Just as suddenly as the pandemic began, so too did new cyberattacks. Hackers and cybercriminals found additional ways to exploit the weaknesses in companies who were not prepared for the shift in business operations. Cyberattacks and security breaches grew at an exponential pace, classifying the COVID-19 pandemic as a major security threat.

As alarming as that is, companies can take proactive steps to avoid major breaches and data loss. Businesses with new remote workers should initiate employee training so that everyone understands how to keep information from falling into the wrong hands. Additionally, companies who connect with a technology partner will realize the benefits of network and email server monitoring. These preventative measures can go a long way in reducing the number of security threats and keep companies from becoming victims of heinous cyberattacks.

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Find New Ways to Connect

Our new way of life ushered in the era of Zoom calls, telehealth, online learning, and virtual ways of nearly everything. We have found new and creative ways to communicate and stay in touch, mostly out of necessity but sometimes out of the desire to maintain some aspect of our "normal" way of life. We quickly adapted to find new and innovative ways to stay in touch with one another, whether in our professional or private lives.

It is unlikely that we will stop using these tools altogether once we can get together in-person. Rather, we have found new communication tools to keep in our back pocket. As we move into the future, we understand that these ways to connect are vital and will continue to be relevant.

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Concluding Thoughts

Companies have learned resiliency in the face of adversity and uncertain times. Though we may have found new ways to operate during the pandemic, technology has made it is possible to continue to thrive. Remote work, proactive security measures, and innovative communication methods will keep many businesses on an upward trend. Partnering with an expert MSP on these issues gives companies a competitive advantage over others. AJTC serves as your dedicated technology partner through uncertain times. For more information, contact AJTC or call 708.942.8200.