What to Include in a Remote Working Security Policy
The shift to remote and hybrid work environments has redefined how teams operate—but it’s also introduced a new set of cybersecurity challenges.
Employees now access sensitive systems and data from personal devices, unsecured networks, and home setups with minimal oversight. And while technology like VPNs, cloud platforms, and collaboration tools help bridge the gap, one thing remains essential: a well-defined remote working security policy.
What Is a Remote Working Security Policy?
A remote working security policy is a formal set of rules and guidelines that define how employees should access, use, and protect company systems and data when working remotely. It outlines expectations, required tools, approved behaviors, and procedures for handling incidents.
For small and midsize businesses (SMBs), especially those without full-time in-house IT staff, this policy becomes the backbone of secure operations in a remote world.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
Cybercriminals love remote workers. Why? Because they often:
- Use personal devices lacking enterprise-level protection
- Connect through poorly secured home Wi-Fi networks
- Fall for phishing attacks without in-office safeguards
- Access sensitive systems without endpoint monitoring
Without clear policies, your employees are navigating these risks blind—and your business becomes an easy target.
At Ace Technology Group, we work with SMBs across Greater Philadelphia to proactively lock down their environments with smart security policies, layered protection, and user-friendly systems.
What to Include in Your Remote Working Security Policy
Here’s a breakdown of the 10 core components every remote working security policy should include—and why they matter.
1. Acceptable Use Guidelines
Clarify exactly what remote employees can and cannot do with company data, systems, and software. This should cover:
- Approved apps, devices, and browsers
- Prohibited websites or platforms
- Personal use of company devices
Example: “Employees may not install unauthorized software or access personal email accounts on company-issued devices.”
2. Device Security Requirements
Whether you’re using BYOPC or company-issued devices, outline baseline requirements such as:
- Antivirus and endpoint protection
- Disk encryption (e.g., BitLocker)
- Screen timeout and password lock settings
- Prohibited device sharing (e.g., no letting kids use a work laptop)
You may also want to specify that devices must be approved or monitored by IT.
3. Authentication and Access Controls
Enforce secure login practices, including:
- Strong, unique passwords
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- VPN use for accessing internal networks
- Role-based access (i.e., least privilege necessary)
Microsoft 365 integrates many of these features natively and is ideal for remote teams.
4. Wi-Fi and Network Requirements
Home networks are one of the weakest links in remote security. Your policy should require:
- WPA2 or higher Wi-Fi encryption
- Strong router passwords
- No use of public or unsecured Wi-Fi without a VPN
- Regular firmware updates for home routers
Encourage team members to use a company-approved VPN for extra protection.
5. Data Storage and Sharing Rules
Make it clear how and where employees are allowed to store and share data:
- No saving company files on local hard drives or personal cloud storage
- Use only company-approved file sharing (e.g., OneDrive, SharePoint)
- Encrypted USB use (if allowed at all)
Specify retention, deletion, and access policies—especially for regulated industries.
6. Remote Access Protocols
Spell out how remote workers should connect to business systems. This might include:
- Using a secure virtual desktop or cloud environment
- Accessing business email via Microsoft Outlook only
- No direct login to internal servers unless using VPN and MFA
This reduces the attack surface and simplifies IT oversight.
7. Incident Reporting Procedures
If something goes wrong, your team needs to know exactly what to do—and fast.
Include instructions for reporting:
- Lost or stolen devices
- Suspicious emails or links
- Unusual activity on accounts
- Phishing attempts or credential compromise
Also, define who to contact and how quickly they must report.
8. Employee Training Requirements
Your policy should mandate security awareness training, including:
- Recognizing phishing and social engineering attempts
- Safe file handling and sharing
- Password management tips
- Best practices for remote work etiquette and safety
At Ace Technology Group, we help businesses run phishing simulations and user training that turn your staff into your first line of defense.
9. Third-Party Tools and App Usage
Be clear about what software and platforms are allowed—and which ones are banned.
Do this:
- Maintain a list of approved apps (e.g., Zoom, Slack, Teams)
- Ban file-sharing apps not under company control (e.g., Dropbox, Google Drive if you’re on Microsoft 365)
- Limit browser extensions or plugins unless vetted by IT
Unvetted third-party tools are often how attackers sneak in.
10. Policy Acknowledgment and Enforcement
It’s not enough to have a policy. Employees must read it, sign it, and understand the consequences of violations.
Include:
- Digital or physical signature requirements
- Periodic policy reviews and re-certification
- Disciplinary measures for non-compliance
And keep the policy somewhere accessible for employees to reference.
Bonus Section: Work-From-Home Physical Security Tips
Sometimes it’s the simple stuff that causes problems. Remind your team:
- Don’t leave laptops in cars or shared spaces
- Lock screens when stepping away
- Keep work devices away from kids or roommates
- Use surge protectors and proper equipment setup
Yes, this matters—even in 2025.
How Ace Technology Group Helps Lock Down Remote Work
As a trusted IT partner for SMBs in Philadelphia, Chester County, and beyond, Ace Technology Group makes it easy to launch secure, scalable remote work strategies.
We help you:
- Draft and enforce a remote working security policy
- Roll out MFA, endpoint protection, and Microsoft 365 tools
- Monitor remote access and train employees
- Detect threats before they become disasters
Through our Managed IT Services and Remote Workforce Solutions, we turn security into a strength—not a roadblock.
Final Thoughts: Policy Is Power
A strong remote working security policy isn’t about micromanagement. It’s about giving your team the tools, knowledge, and clarity to succeed—safely.
Whether you’re fully remote, hybrid, or just dipping your toe into flexible work, your policy is your foundation. It keeps your systems resilient, your data protected, and your people aligned.