Today, after the widespread use of the remote working system, digital nomads have started to increase as well. As digital nomads, people of all ages combine remote work and travel for specific periods, often longer. According to a search in 2022, the source claims that nearly half of all digital nomads worldwide were in their 30s. The poll also showed that the age range of 40 to 59 was well-represented, making up 35% of digital nomads globally.
Digital nomads use technologies like WiFi, smart devices, and cloud-based apps to work from anywhere. They are interested in digital jobs by using digital environments to make a living while traveling the world. Portable digital tools, especially computers, offer various opportunities to digital nomads who travel independently of the place. Digital nomads can run their businesses in digital environments and produce new jobs by using many technological platforms. There are many digital applications and programs used by these people.
In addition to the applications and programs used by digital nomads, an internet connection is essential for them. An internet connection is essential for digital nomads to be able to send their work on digital platforms to their customers or employers. But while providing connectivity, digital nomads are at higher cybersecurity risk than traditional workers. As a remedy, with NordLayer IAM solutions, digital nomads can both establish a secure connection and keep their data safe.
What are the main risks of being a digital nomad?
Although being a digital nomad appears to be a highly appealing lifestyle, there are some risks.
Public wi-fi
Most digital nomads occasionally need to use public WiFi. Public networks are frequently the sole choice when composing a fast email in a hotel room or monitoring business news at the airport. However, public wi-fi is the main reason for cyberattacks.
Unencrypted wireless networks are used by some enterprises. Others rely on the known security flaw-prone WPA2 encryption protocol. With a man-in-the-middle hack, attackers can take over routers and make every network user vulnerable. Never connect to public WiFi without the necessary security.
Electronic device theft
Every day, thousands of smartphones, tablets, and computers disappear worldwide. Wherever you are, physical device theft is a critical security threat.
Never leave your electronic devices unattended, and always be aware of their location. To deal with device theft, digital nomads can adopt security measures.
For example, tracking applications can use applications or security solutions that provide accurate location information. These enable you to remotely delete sensitive data or make it inaccessible to thieves.
File and data sharing
Digital nomads regularly share sensitive information and files such as presentation documents, account data, or product prototypes. However, sharing files can also pose a serious security risk. It’s possible that unencrypted cloud-based sharing services exist.
Employees may fail to verify the origin of sharing requests, which could result in data exposure during sharing. Reduce file-sharing risks by selecting third-party providers who prioritize security. The risk of data theft is decreased by solutions like secured cloud storage.
Secure passwords
Numerous login information for important SaaS services, email accounts, and data sources is managed by digital nomads. Employees can reuse passwords across many systems and frequently rely on paper records. Significant security dangers are prevalent with both applications. Establishing strict password security, MFA, and frequent password changes are essential.
What are the 4 cybersecurity tips for digital nomads?
Although the digital nomad risks we mentioned above may seem compelling, you can continue to work safely as a digital nomad with just a few cybersecurity tips. Here are the 4 cybersecurity tips for digital nomads.
Create unique passwords
Strong passwords will prevent unauthorized users from accessing devices. The right password must be entered in order to log in if a hacker or burglar tries to access business systems. Hackers can frequently break the code if the passwords are simple to guess, like the company name or location. To stop this easy breach, be inventive and include at least three different character types in your password.
Never forget to backup your data
Digital nomads must regularly back up their data because they do the majority of their work and operations on computers. It might not be possible to recover this data if a computer malfunction and the information is not stored elsewhere. You can spend money on a portable hard drive where you can back up important company documents, emails, and data to save years or months of tedious effort.
Install a Firewall
A firewall is a software that keeps accessible systems from receiving unauthorized internet traffic. When this application is set up properly, it provides digital nomads greater control over their own devices and can stop attacks on the company’s computer network.
Use anti-virus software
Computers can be protected by antivirus software as long as it is updated. In addition, antivirus software cannot detect a virus that has not yet been identified and disseminated. Digital nomads should frequently check their computers for viruses, which are typically installed on most computers. The program finds every virus danger and eliminates it from the hard drive to stop it from spreading throughout the system.
Conclusion
Digital nomads are an example of the individuation that has grown more apparent in society, especially after the pandemic. With the idea of digital nomadism, people seek to transition from an office setting to a more independent working existence. With the advent of the digital age, people have started to use the internet as an escape from the chaos of contemporary society.
With the concept of digital nomadism, people who formerly worked and earned money to survive have started to change into people who now work to live and enjoy the moment. Depending on technological advancements, the number of digital nomads, who combine living, traveling, and working, will rise every day. Those who do not neglect cybersecurity while doing this job will get the highest efficiency.
