Using a Virtual Private Network to boost your cyber security

2020 has seen many of us working from home, which means many people are using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for the first time. Let’s look at what they do and see how you can make sure you’re keeping your security in check.

VPNs in a nutshell

Using a VPN allows you to securely access a company network and resources from a remote location. The idea is to prevent your data from being intercepted by anyone, making VPNs ideal for working from home.

How to make sure your VPN is as secure as possible

Just like any network, there are still a few things you should be aware of to make sure your VPN is working best for you.

Keep up-to-date with updates

Like other systems, VPNs can still be vulnerable to security issues. Therefore, it’s essential to get on board with new updates as soon as they’re released.

Be careful with your VPN login details

Hackers can try to target VPN login details through phishing and other scams – learn how to stay safe online and spot scams.

Do your research when looking for a provider

Always check the legitimacy and reputation of a VPN provider and product before you purchase or use it. Not all VPNs are trustworthy – unfortunately hackers can advertise fake ones in an attempt to steal your personal details.

Set up multi-factor authentication

This means that you need to have an additional point of login, which provides another level of security when logging in.

If you’re a business owner

Train your staff and team members in security

Make sure the people in your organisation are aware of the importance of cyber security, and are able to recognise and report suspicious activity, including phishing.

Set up measures at your workplace to optimise the VPN experience for your team

This might mean reconfiguring technical infrastructure to optimise the performance of VPNs connecting to your corporate network.

Keep reading

Learn how to protect your devices and identity so your banking stays safe from online threats.

Learn about the most common scams, how to spot them and what to do if you've been targeted.

Learn how to protect your cyber security throughout your home.

Need help?

You can message us in the Bankwest App or online banking, or call us – we're here 24/7.

The information contained in this article is of a general nature and is not intended to be nor should it be considered as professional advice. You should not act on the basis of anything contained in this article without first obtaining specific professional advice. Also to the extent permitted by law, Bankwest, a division of Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL / Australian credit licence 234945, its related bodies corporate, employees and contractors accept no liability or responsibility to any persons for any loss which may be incurred or suffered as a result of acting on or refraining from acting as a result of anything contained in this article.