How to Protect Your Data When Working Remotely
Remote work was once an experimental concept by progressive companies, but the novelty has worn off. It's now how millions of us get things done. But as convenient as working from your kitchen table or a local café, it also comes with new risks. Sensitive client files, private messages, and login credentials don't have the same protection they would inside a traditional office setup.
A VPN is the answer—an effective tool that safeguards data by encrypting internet traffic, hiding IP addresses, and helping keep bad actors at bay. But just having a VPN isn’t enough. At least not on its own. How you use it matters just as much. Simple habits and knowing how to change VPN settings can give you better speed, stronger privacy, and greater control over your online footprint.
Why Remote Work Creates Unique Security Risks
It's easy to forget how much protection an office environment provides: firewalls, secure servers, and dedicated IT teams.
Remote work strips most of that away. Maybe you're logging on from home. Perhaps your go-to is a co-working space. Maybe you prefer the corner table at your favourite coffee shop. Wherever you are, your data is suddenly a lot more exposed.
Freelancers and remote teams are soft targets. There are no centralized security protocols. This means even one weak link — an old laptop or a dodgy Wi-Fi connection — can open the door to serious breaches, data theft, or malware infections.
- Public Wi-Fi. Convenient, yes — but often completely unsecured. Anyone on the same network could intercept your data.
- Outdated software. Skipping updates might save time, but it leaves your device open to known exploits.
- Phishing emails. Remote workers rely heavily on email. That makes them prime targets for cleverly disguised scams that steal login details or inject malware.
- Unsecured file transfers. Sending files without encryption — or through unreliable platforms — risks leaks and data breaches.
Bottom line? Working remotely doesn’t have to be risky. But it does require you to think like your own IT department.
Why Would You Need a VPN for Remote Work
Internet traffic is encrypted with a VPN. It's like a shield from anyone who might be watching, such as hackers on public Wi-Fi, data-hungry advertisers, or even internet service providers tracking your activity.
This layer of protection is critical for remote workers handling sensitive projects or for logging in to company systems.
A VPN also hides your IP address. This helps prevent tracking. And it locks some of the most common forms of data interception.
How to Change VPN Settings (And Why It Matters)
Using a VPN is a great start. But knowing how to change VPN settings gives you more. It means having even greater flexibility and control.
Switching server locations can:
- Improve speed. If your current server is overloaded or far away, changing it can give you a faster, more stable connection.
- Bypass restrictions. Changing your VPN location lets you bypass geoblocks. Need to access tools, databases, or websites that are blocked in your region?
- Add extra privacy. Suspect a connection has been compromised? Switch servers and protocols for another layer of protection.
Here’s how to change your VPN location:
- Open your VPN app.
- Select a different server or country from the list.
- Adjust the VPN protocol settings if needed. There are different settings for speed and encryption.
- Turn on auto-connect, especially when using unknown or unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Pro tip: Don’t just set and forget. Knowing how to change VPN settings means you’re in control. You can prioritise speed, privacy, or access based on your needs.
Lock Down Your Email and Communication Tools
Email is one of the biggest risks. It’s where login links, sensitive client files, and business conversations live.
Phishing, spoofing, and credential theft all happen through email. It is a top threat vector for remote workers. The good news? A few simple habits can reduce your risk significantly:
- Use strong, unique passwords. Create different ones for each account and store them in a trusted password manager.
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Don't check or send emails over public Wi-Fi unless using a secure VPN connection.
- Watch for phishing attempts, especially from addresses that look familiar but feel "off." A single click on a fake link could compromise your entire account. If you use the same passwords for other accounts (Don't! See point one), they will be, too.
If you use a desktop email client, make sure your setup supports end-to-end encryption where possible. This helps protect the contents of your messages even if your network is compromised.
Remember: Secure communication doesn't stop at email. The same principles apply to tools like Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams. Use encrypted services, enable privacy settings, and stay alert to unexpected messages.
Secure Your Devices and Accounts
Your VPN might shield your internet traffic, but your devices still need their own line of defence. Laptops, tablets, and phones all have the potential to be unsecured devices that open doors for hackers. Start with the basics. Keep systems and apps up to date. Don't delay. Updates often patch serious security flaws that cybercriminals actively exploit. Pair that with solid antivirus software and firewall protection, even using a VPN. These tools work together. They'll detect malware, block suspicious activity, and keep your operating system clean.
Other smart steps to take:
- Turn off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi auto-connect, and hotspot sharing when you're not using them. These features can silently expose you to nearby attackers.
- Store sensitive documents securely either on encrypted local drives or secure cloud platforms. A zero-knowledge file encryption tool can add more protection if you're handling confidential client data or financial records.
Bonus tip: Don't forget your mobile devices. If you're checking work emails or messaging clients on your phone, make sure it's protected, too, with device encryption, VPN access, and strong lock screen settings.
Watch Your Behaviour
Even with the best tools, your day-to-day habits play a huge role in keeping data safe. Think digital hygiene. The small, consistent actions that protect your work from unnecessary risk.
First, physical awareness. Don't view or edit sensitive files or access client data publicly, or anywhere someone could be looking over your shoulder. And if you step away—even just for coffee—lock your screen every time.
Next, data backups. A client presentation. A week's worth of emails. Losing access can derail you. Save yourself from ransomware attacks, hardware failures, or just accidental deletion. Schedule regular backups. And make sure they're stored securely.
Finally, don't mix personal and work accounts. Avoid using the same logins or cloud storage for both. Mixing personal and professional accounts increases your exposure and weakens your security posture overall.
Remote work gives you freedom. But with that comes responsibility. And a little digital discipline goes a long way.
Be Proactive, Not Paranoid
Working remotely doesn’t have to mean working at risk:
- Use a VPN.
- Know how to change your VPN location when needed.
- Secure your email, devices, and habits.
Online privacy isn’t a one-time fix. It’s a set of small, consistent actions that make a big difference over time.
