Keeping Data Secure as a Freelancer

In an increasingly digital world, most businesses are relying more and more on online tools for communication, file sharing, and content creation programs.

We email, type notes, design, use software, surf the Web, enter financial information, message coworkers and clients, and even conduct calls and video chats right from our desktops, laptops, or mobile devices all day long.

Our entire existence is hosted online, for better or for worse. Though it’s beneficial to see instant results or have immediate connections, having sensitive information online makes us vulnerable to security breaches.

For the most part, companies understand the severity of this and go to great (and sometimes costly) lengths to keep data safe.

And, as a freelancer, there are a number of steps to both safeguard your own information and be a trustworthy partner for your clients.

Enterprise Cybersecurity

With compromising hacks being uncovered more frequently, businesses and individuals alike are more concerned than ever about data security.

According to a Fortune article, which cites a report by the International Data Corporation, companies are expected to spend upwards of $101.6 billion on cybersecurity software, services, and hardware by 2020.

Enterprises employ entire IT teams who are responsible for being the digital gatekeepers of the company. They ensure that devices and data remain secure by utilizing firewalls, backup systems, and sophisticated software.

This level of awareness and prevention is great when it comes to securing on-site employees’ devices and networks, but with the rise in freelancers and remote workers, how can they feel confident that confidential information is being protected?

With the rise in freelancers and remote workers, how can business owners feel confident that confidential information is protected? Click To Tweet

One great aspect of contracting work out to freelancers is that business owners don’t have to be on the hook to provide benefits to the worker—including resources like a laptop—which can significantly decrease the cost of overhead. On the flipside, they don’t have as much control when it comes to safeguarding information or files being shared.

As a freelancer, you don’t have a dedicated IT team to back you up (literally). However, you can assure your existing or potential clients that you also take cybersecurity seriously, and here are some ways to prove it.

Secure Connections

One of the perks of being a freelancer is the freedom to work anytime and from anywhere. Though it’s a luxury to have mobile flexibility, it’s important to be mindful of your Internet connections.

Popping out to your local coffee shop, hunkering down in a hotel room, or working on the fly in an airport can provide productive changes of scenery, but they also come with some security concerns.

It’s important to avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, and instead only use password-protected connections.

No secure networks available? Having an unlimited data plan with your mobile provider will ensure you can hop on your personal Wi-Fi hotspot when needed.

VPN

You can also take it a smart step further and subscribe to a credible VPN (Virtual Private Network) service.

Many businesses use a VPN for their employees, which means they are working within a secure network connection that is only accessible on specific, confirmed devices.

What makes a VPN more protected than a regular, password-enable Wi-Fi connection? All the data transmitted within the VPN is encrypted, ensuring that even if a hacker were able to crack into the system, they wouldn’t be able to decipher the information found.

As a freelancer, you can also employ your own VPN system on your computer. Note that there are both free and paid services available, but it might be worth it to spend a little for added peace of mind.

Not sure if you want to spend money on your business? Read our last article, Why it’s Crucial to Invest in Your Business, to learn why you should be shelling out for some resources.

 

There are many VPN service providers on the market, but check out CNET’s round-up picks for 2018.

Email Encryption

Using a VPN is a great way to encrypt data within your network, but there are other forms of encryption as well.

There is specific software to encrypt email, which can be one of the easiest things for a hacker to get their hands on. Email is likely how you communicate with clients, passing along critical information and files. It also may be the host for other sensitive information, such as financial account details or tax forms.

Email encryption uses a complex algorithm and encryption key to make messages and attachments unreadable to those who aren’t intended to be a recipient. Better yet? Many encryption tools are free and may be an extension of your current web browser.

In addition, you may want to set up and monitor DMARC reports for your email domain, as those can tell you when e.g. someone is trying to send unauthorized emails from your domain.

Anti-Virus Software

If you’re reading this article, then we can probably assume you’re a Mac user.

Historically, Macs have been known to be more secure than PCs. But that has changed over the years. Though a Mac may be more difficult to target, there is still a threat. User error (such as downloading spam apps) can make your MacBook vulnerable to malware.

Especially for a freelancer who has the added responsibility of keeping a client’s data safe, it’s a good idea to install anti-virus software on your computer.

Luckily, our friends at Macworld have broken down the top security software for Macs today: The best Mac antivirus of 2018.

Secure Programs

You likely use a number of programs to work at an expert level. When dealing with sensitive or proprietary projects, use software or apps that also value cybersecurity.

Some apps may store your information online, or even sell it to third parties. Terrible, we know. Of course, a company that would put your privacy at risk is not one that you should partner with—whether in business or personally.

Here at Timing, we treat your privacy with the utmost respect, and would never compromise your data or the data of your clients. When using Timing, everything being tracked is kept locally right on your Mac, with nothing getting released or exported until you explicitly say so (let’s say, for example, for a client report).

We also give you the option to pause your time tracking within Timing, or even designate certain apps, websites, or file folders to not be tracked at all using our “Blacklist” feature.

Whether it’s with us or with another resource you use daily or sporadically, it’s critical to understand the privacy policies of each and every software program you consider.

Final Thoughts

In addition to the measures above, it’s best practice to regularly update your devices to the newest operating system and switch up your passwords regularly.

We know you have a lot to juggle, and who can remember multiple passwords—especially if you are changing them frequently? Luckily, free apps like 1Password have your back, and can help keep all of your passwords in one, secure place (with only one ultimate password needed to access them all).

Taking the steps necessary to keep data safe doesn’t just place you in good standing with your clients and protect against risky leaks, but it also keeps your own personal information safe from hacks and identity theft.

You know what they always say: It’s better to be safe than sorry!