Remote Work on BYOD Laptops After an Insider Threat

Organizations constantly struggle to balance strong security measures with the need for smooth operations for their remote workforce. We recently spoke with a communications company that was grappling with such issues when a security incident shook their operations.

They needed more robust security protocols to secure sensitive data and systems on BYOD laptops. Their current approach was not ideal and left them vulnerable. Their quest to transform their approach led them to Venn.

Their scenario is not unfamiliar for many companies: a globally distributed team using their own personal laptops and devices accessing critical systems and customer networks. Given the complexity of controlling access, securing confidential information, and preventing possible risks on personal devices, they realized a fresh strategy was necessary.

A recent insider threat incident exposed weaknesses in their existing setup. A disgruntled worker tried to sabotage customer data, underscoring the immediate necessity for improved security protocols. Since the incident, ensuring a consistent and secure work environment has become a top priority for them.

The company has a distributed workforce that relies on various applications like Microsoft Office 365, One Drive, Salesforce, and other SaaS apps. Employees also log into company networks, so security and compliance are a top priority and focus.

A New Approach for Securing Remote Work with Venn

Venn works with many security and compliance-driven customers who need to secure remote work on any Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) or unmanaged computers. Venn eliminates the need for Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) or having to lock down every PC. Venn provides a seamless balance between freedom and control, enabling remote work without compromising security.

Venn creates a secure environment directly on a user’s PC or Mac, known as a Secure Enclave, ensuring that all data is encrypted and access is managed. Within this enclave, work applications operate locally, isolating business activities from any personal usage on the same device, thereby enhancing security. This approach protects company data without necessitating full device control, effectively securing remote work without the associated expenses, complexities, and performance drawbacks of VDI.

Access to Venn can be enabled, suspended, terminated or data remotely wiped, with just the click of a button. Moreover, Venn provides robust data protection measures. IT administrators can gain control over user activities, such as copy/paste, screen sharing, and printing, ensuring both security and compliance. Additionally, Venn also monitors device compliance, mitigating risks of data breaches and ensuring user adherence to security protocols.

Key Benefits for a Globally Distributed Communications Company

• Enhanced Security By limiting work-related activities to the Secure Enclave, the company can effectively mitigate the risk of data breaches and insider threats. With Venn, the boundaries of security are strengthened, ensuring that sensitive data and customers remain protected, even on BYOD or unmanaged computers.
• Simplified Onboarding and Offboarding With Venn, the company can onboard workers in minutes, and when workers leave, all work data can be instantly and remotely wiped, keeping all sensitive data secure. For users, onboarding takes little to no training and a simple install allows them to begin working quickly.

• Cross-Platform Support Venn’s solution extends beyond traditional computers to include mobile devices, offering consistent security measures across all platforms. This comprehensive approach ensures that regardless of the device employees use, the company can maintain a high level of security and control over its data environment.

For this communications company that experienced a security threat, Venn represents a proactive step towards securing their remote work environment. By leveraging Venn’s innovative technology, they aim to enhance productivity while securing sensitive data from potential threats. As businesses continue to adapt to the evolving landscape of remote work, solutions like Venn offer a compelling path towards achieving a secure and compliant work environment.

Learn more about Venn and get started today.