Cyber Risks for Remote Workers

With COVID-19 came a myriad of changes, both professionally and personally.  Time will tell what the “new normal” will look like, but the ability to work remotely has never been more pronounced.  With remote working comes challenges to businesses, specifically Cyber Threats.  The reality is at-home networks do not have the security protections in place that a business typically does. 

Here are a few things you and your staff can do to protect your remote workers:

1. Have a remote worker policy in force

2. Only connect to the internet through secure networks

3. Only click on links, open attachments and download software from trusted sources

4. Use strong passwords

5. Ensure your network, software and applications are up-to-date

6. Don’t respond to requests for information from unknown sources

7. Use multi-factor authentication in lieu of passwords

8. Make sure your IT department, whether in-house or outsourced, is aware of the new remote layout, so they can be prepared for additional phone calls.

The bad actors are delighted to have more daily online activity.  Don’t be the individual or organization to let them in on the party. 

 

The State of the Insurance Industry during COVID-19

As many states begin to announce plans to reopen the local economy, the residual impact of COVID-19 still remains. The insurance industry has taken steps to provide relief for policyholders that have been impacted as a result of “shelter-in-place” orders.

While the hot button topic as of late is Business Income or Business Interruption and whether coverage would apply, there are a number of positive steps the insurance industry has taken to aid those affected by COVID-19.

Most insurance companies have continued to offer to delay cancellations as a result of non-payment of premium. In addition, many are offering premium credits on personal auto policies for the months of March, April, and even May in some cases. These are essentially refunds of 15% – 25% depending on the carrier – due to a drastic decrease in driving habits.  

Vacancy clauses on many commercial policies have been waived as well given the decreased capacity due to employees working from home.  We have even seen similar premium refunds offered on small business policies with certain carriers.

Health carriers have taken steps to eliminate deductibles for COVID-19 cases and have increased payments to cover Coronavirus testing.

We continue to monitor industry and carrier actions closely as they evolve.