You’re a GIS professional working remotely. How can you ensure your work is secure?

1 Use a VPN

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a service that encrypts and routes your internet traffic through a secure server, hiding your IP address and location from prying eyes. A VPN can help you access your organization's network and resources, such as databases, servers, and cloud services, without exposing them to hackers or other threats. A VPN can also protect your privacy and data from your internet service provider, public Wi-Fi networks, or malicious websites. Make sure you use a reputable and reliable VPN provider, and follow your organization's policies and guidelines for VPN usage.

2 Encrypt your devices and files

Encryption is the process of transforming your data into an unreadable format that can only be decoded with a key or password. Encryption can prevent unauthorized access to your devices and files, even if they are stolen, lost, or compromised. You should encrypt your laptop, tablet, smartphone, external hard drive, USB flash drive, or any other device that stores your GIS data and work. You should also encrypt your files, especially those that contain sensitive or confidential information, such as personal data, financial records, or proprietary maps. You can use built-in encryption tools, such as BitLocker for Windows or FileVault for Mac, or third-party encryption software, such as VeraCrypt or AxCrypt.

3 Backup your data regularly

Backing up your data means making copies of your files and storing them in a different location or device than the original. Backing up your data can help you recover your work in case of accidental deletion, corruption, virus infection, hardware failure, or natural disaster. You should backup your data regularly, preferably daily or weekly, depending on how often you update your files. You should also backup your data in multiple ways, such as using an external hard drive, a cloud service, or a network drive. You should also test your backups periodically to make sure they are working and accessible.

5 Follow the best practices for passwords and authentication

Passwords and authentication are the methods that verify your identity and grant you access to your devices and accounts. Passwords and authentication are the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your work, so you should follow the best practices for creating and managing them. You should use strong and unique passwords for each device and account, and change them frequently. You should also use multi-factor authentication, such as a code sent to your phone or email, or a biometric scan, such as your fingerprint or face, whenever possible. You should also avoid sharing your passwords or authentication details with anyone, or writing them down or storing them in an insecure place.

6 Educate yourself and others about cyber threats and scams

Cyber threats and scams are the malicious attempts to steal your data, money, or identity, or to damage your devices or systems, by using deceptive or fraudulent methods. Cyber threats and scams can come in various forms, such as phishing emails, ransomware attacks, fake websites, or social engineering. You should educate yourself and others about the common signs and types of cyber threats and scams, and how to avoid or report them. You should also be vigilant and cautious when opening emails, clicking links, downloading files, or entering information online, and always verify the source and legitimacy of any request or offer.