'Cybersecurity risks loom due to the practice of 'Polyworking''
In the digital age, the 'polyworking' trend - where individuals juggle multiple jobs or side gigs - is becoming increasingly popular, especially among Gen Z. This generation, born between 1997 and 2012, has the highest rate (48%) of adopting this trend, according to recent studies.
However, this trend creates unique cybersecurity risks. With multiple jobs and notifications coming from various apps, it's only a matter of time before a security lapse occurs, warns Evgeny Kuskov, a security expert at Kaspersky.
The overlap between workstreams without proper security segmentation leads to higher chances of data exposure, password reuse, unauthorized software use, and accidental data sharing or misconfiguration. The resulting cognitive overload from multitasking also raises the likelihood of security lapses such as sending sensitive files to wrong recipients or falling for phishing attacks.
Key cybersecurity risks from polyworking among Gen Z include:
- Reusing simple or identical passwords across jobs, increasing vulnerability.
- Using one device for all work and personal activities without secure separation.
- Storing sensitive or corporate data in insecure public cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Installing unauthorized “shadow IT” software or browser extensions that can introduce vulnerabilities.
- Increased potential for human errors such as misconfiguring access permissions or mishandling data due to multitasking cognitive overload.
To mitigate these risks, precautions should include:
- Using unique, complex passwords for each job and enabling multi-factor authentication.
- Segregating devices or using virtual environments to separate work-related data and applications from personal use.
- Avoiding storing sensitive work files on unsecured cloud services and using company-approved secure storage.
- Restricting installation of unauthorized applications or extensions and maintaining regular software updates.
- Providing cybersecurity training focused on the challenges of polyworking and encouraging vigilance against phishing and social engineering.
- Employers enhancing monitoring and support to identify risks introduced by polyworking employees while respecting privacy.
These measures help reduce exposure to breaches and data leaks that are more likely when juggling multiple jobs without robust cybersecurity hygiene. As polyworking grows, especially among Gen Z, both workers and employers must adopt deliberate security strategies to counteract the unique risks this work style presents.
Unfortunately, job platforms such as Fiverr, Upwork, LinkedIn, and Behance are increasingly being used for phishing schemes disguised as legitimate job offers. In one scam, users were tricked into downloading a supposed Zoom update from a phishing page, which was actually malware in disguise. Kaspersky detected over 6 million attacks disguised as platforms or content related to 20 popular work tools over the last year.
Gen Z workers often reuse passwords or rely on simple, easy-to-remember combinations, making them vulnerable to cyber attacks. Polyworkers may be at risk of falling victim to cyber criminals due to their constant multitasking and the complex digital environment they navigate.
In conclusion, while the 'polyworking' trend offers flexibility and opportunities, it also presents unique cybersecurity challenges. By adopting robust security measures, both workers and employers can protect themselves from the risks associated with this work style.
- In the realm of project management, the increasing prevalence of polyworking among Gen Z necessitates enhanced cybersecurity measures.
- The overlap of workstreams in polyworking can lead to cybersecurity risks such as password reuse and data exposure, requiring precautions like using unique, complex passwords and segregating devices.
- As technology advances, cybercriminals are exploiting platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, LinkedIn, and Behance for phishing schemes, under the guise of legitimate job offers.
- To avoid falling victim to these cyber attacks, Gen Z workers should practice good password hygiene and remain vigilant against phishing and social engineering, while employers should provide cybersecurity training and monitoring to ensure a secure work environment.
