Authored by: Bryan Lachapelle, President & CEO
Working from home has become a normal part of everyday business. It’s comfortable, convenient, and for many people, here to stay. But while home offices are great in many ways, they don’t always have the same protections as a traditional office.
That’s why Home Office Safety & Security Week (January 12 - 16) is a great time to pause, check in, and make sure your home setup is keeping your work - and your information - safe.
Why Home Office Security Matters
In an office, security is often built-in behind the scenes. At home, things are a little more casual, and that’s where small issues can creep in. A quick click on the wrong email, a reused password, or an unlocked screen can cause bigger problems than most people realize.
The good news? You don’t need to be “techy” to stay safe. A few simple habits can make a big difference.
Simple Ways to Stay Safe While Working From Home
1. Take Care of Your Home Internet
Your internet connection is how you get your work done, so it’s worth giving it a little attention.
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Use a strong password for your Wifi
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Avoid sharing that password with people you don’t trust
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Be extra careful when working on public Wifi outside your home
A secure connection helps keep unwanted visitors out.
2. Get Into Good Password Habits
Passwords may not be exciting, but they matter.
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Choose passwords that aren’t easy to guess
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Avoid using the same password for work and personal accounts
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Never share your passwords - even if a message sounds urgent
If passwords feel confusing or overwhelming, that’s what your IT team is here for.
3. Let Updates Do Their Job
Those update reminders pop up for a reason.
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Restart your computer when it asks
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Allow updates to install when available
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Stick to approved work programs and tools
Updates help keep things running smoothly and safely.
4. Pause Before Clicking
Scam messages are getting better at looking real.
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Slow down when an email or text feels urgent
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Don’t click links or open attachments unless you’re sure
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When something feels off, ask before you act
It’s always okay to double-check.
5. Keep Work and Home Life Separate
When work and personal life mix on the same device, mistakes can happen.
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Try not to share work devices with others
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Keep work files where they belong
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Use work devices mainly for work
This helps protect both your business and your personal information.
6. Lock Your Screen (Yes, Even at Home)
It sounds simple, but it’s often forgotten.
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Lock your screen when you step away
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Be mindful of who can see your screen during calls
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Store devices safely when you’re done for the day
Small steps like these add up.
We’re Here to Help
You don’t need to know everything about technology to work safely from home - that’s our job. If you’re ever unsure about your setup, an email you received, or something that just doesn’t feel right, reach out to us.
We also encourage you to check out our Working From Home Report, where we share helpful insights, common challenges, and practical tips for staying productive and secure while working remotely.
A quick conversation or review today can help prevent bigger issues down the road. Safe work really does start at home.
