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Working from home has changed the way organisations deal with ISO 27001 compliance fundamentally changed. Remote work introduces new security risks that arise outside the traditional office environment, from unsecured home networks to physical access to confidential information. Organisations must adapt their information security policies to this new reality to maintain their certification and manage risks effectively.
Why does working from home bring new risks to ISO 27001 compliance?
Working from home creates security risks because employees operate outside the controlled office environment where traditional security measures apply. Home networks are often less secure, physical access controls are lacking, and organisations have limited visibility into how information is processed and stored.
The fundamental challenge lies in the loss of direct control over the working environment. In offices, organisations can centrally manage network security, physical access and workstations. At home, employees often use shared Wi-Fi networks, work in spaces where others can access screens and documents, and may store company information on personal devices.
Network security poses a critical risk, as home networks rarely have the same security standards as corporate networks. Unsecured Wi-Fi connections, outdated routers and shared internet connections can expose sensitive corporate data to interception.
Physical security becomes more challenging as employees often work at home in shared spaces where family members, housemates or visitors can inadvertently access confidential information on screens or printed documents.
What technical security measures are essential for home workers?
Effective technical security for home workers requires a combination of VPN connections, endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication and secure communication tools. These measures create a secure digital workplace that minimises the risks of remote work.
VPN connections are essential for securing data transmission between home workplaces and corporate networks. A properly configured VPN encrypts all communications and ensures that sensitive data is not transmitted over unsecured internet connections.
Endpoint protection should be implemented on all devices that access corporate systems. This includes antivirus software, firewalls, automatic updates and device encryption. Organisations should also have capabilities for remote wipe of devices in case of loss or theft.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is becoming crucial for remote access as traditional perimeter safeguards fall away. MFA ensures that even when passwords are compromised, unauthorised access is prevented.
Secure communication tools are necessary for sharing sensitive information. This means using encrypted e-mail, secure file-sharing platforms and authorised video conferencing solutions instead of unmanaged consumer applications.
How to develop effective homeworking policies within ISO 27001?
Effective homeworking policies within ISO 27001 should include clear guidelines on the use of private devices, data protection and incident management. The policy should be practical to implement while meeting the security requirements of the standard.
The policy should specifically address when and how private equipment may be used for business purposes. This includes minimum security requirements, approval procedures and regular security checks. Organisations should also make it clear what data may and may not be stored on personal devices.
Data protection guidelines should include practical instructions for handling confidential information at home. This means rules for printing documents, using cloud storage, securing physical workstations and securely destroying sensitive materials.
Incident management procedures should be adapted to remote-work scenarios. Employees should know how to report security incidents, what to do if devices are lost and how to deal with potential data breaches in the home environment.
The policy should also provide for regular training and awareness-raising as home workers are more independently responsible for complying with security measures without direct supervision.
What are the biggest pitfalls in auditing homework compliance?
The biggest pitfalls in homework audits are inadequate documentation of remote-work processes, underestimation of physical security risks and inadequate compliance monitoring of homeworkers. Many organisations focus too much on technical measures and forget the human and process aspects.
Organisations often fail in documenting how security controls are actually applied in home office situations. Auditors want to see that policies not only exist on paper, but are effectively implemented and monitored in practice.
A common mistake is underestimating physical security risks. Organisations implement comprehensive technical measures, but forget to monitor how employees handle screen security, document storage and preventing unauthorised access to their home workplace.
Compliance monitoring often becomes problematic because traditional control mechanisms do not work for remote workers. Organisations need to develop new methods to verify that security measures are consistently applied.
To avoid these pitfalls, organisations need to keep their ISO 27001 certification approach adapt to the reality of hybrid working. This means investing in both technical solutions and culture change, with security becoming a shared responsibility between organisation and employee.
Do you have questions about how your organisation can optimise homework compliance for ISO 27001? Please visit contact with us for expert guidance on implementing effective remote-work security measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum technical requirements for a secure home workplace according to ISO 27001?
A secure home workplace requires at least a VPN connection, endpoint protection with antivirus and firewall, multi-factor authentication for all systems and encryption of devices. In addition, all devices should have automatic updates and there should be a facility for remote wipe in case of loss.
As an employer, how can I check whether home workers comply with security guidelines?
Implement regular digital compliance checks, use endpoint management tools to monitor security status and conduct periodic self-assessments. Also organise regular security training and create a culture where employees self-report incidents without fear of sanctions.
Why is physical security when working from home often an underestimated risk?
Physical security is underestimated because organisations focus on technical measures while family members, housemates or visitors at home can easily access confidential information. Screens often remain unlocked, documents lie open and workstations are not shielded from prying eyes.
When is a home worker allowed to use private equipment for business purposes?
Private devices should only be used after explicit approval by IT security, installation of required security software and signing of a BYOD agreement. The device must meet minimum security standards and be regularly checked for compliance with company policies.
