"Update Security and Vaccines When Working from Home: 6 Key Information Protection Rules"

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] "When working from home, be sure to update your security and antivirus programs. Also, avoid using private Wi-Fi networks installed in cafes and other public places."

The Ministry of Science and ICT on the 30th recommended the '6 Major Information Protection Practices' that users and security managers should follow to prevent hacking damage during telecommuting and remote work. This security advisory was prepared to address security threats as telecommuting and remote work have increased as part of 'social distancing' measures following the recent outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

From February to March, 9,886 smishing messages aimed at stealing user accounts and hacking smartphones and PCs by exploiting COVID-19 issues were detected, and hacking email cases have been reported both domestically and internationally. In addition, there have been 12 ransomware attack incidents targeting security management systems, indicating an increase in security threats in the private sector.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Science and ICT urged users to ▲keep personal PC security updated ▲keep antivirus programs up to date and perform regular scans ▲configure home router security settings (software updates, password settings) and avoid using private Wi-Fi and public PCs ▲prefer company email use and be cautious with personal email use ▲avoid unnecessary websites ▲be careful when downloading files (beware of ransomware infection).

For corporate security managers, the ministry recommended ▲using remote work systems (VPN) ▲establishing security guidelines and raising awareness for telecommuters ▲managing user accounts and access rights of telecommuters ▲blocking network access during periods of inactivity ▲strengthening remote access monitoring ▲and securing data such as personal and corporate information (beware of ransomware infection).

The Ministry of Science and ICT plans to operate ‘COVID-19 Safety Information,’ which provides a comprehensive view of government and corporate safety measures, guidelines, and tips until the COVID-19 situation is resolved. This will be available on the Korea Internet & Security Agency website (www.kisa.or.kr/covid19) and via phone (☎118).

‘COVID-19 Safety Information’ includes not only the ‘6 Major Information Protection Practices’ but also various security policies related to COVID-19, general status updates, and useful applications related to COVID-19.

Heo Seong-wook, Director of Information Protection Network Policy at the Ministry of Science and ICT, said, “To prevent security incidents caused by COVID-19, active participation in adhering to information protection guidelines by the public and companies is necessary,” adding, “The Ministry of Science and ICT will continue to do its best to respond to various security incidents and cyberattacks related to COVID-19.”