Hybrid work makes life easier, but security harder. In 2026, more UK organisations are embracing flexible working, but the spread of people, devices and networks raises the risk of account takeover, data loss and fraud. Security is no longer just an IT task; it’s part of the daily workflow for everyone.
Hybrid security checklist: MFA, password manager, WPA3 router, MDM/encryption, phishing reporting, 3-2-1 backups.
Hybrid security quick-start (what to do this week)
- Everyone: Turn on MFA (authenticator app or hardware key), use a password manager, lock your screen at 3–5 minutes, and keep OS/apps up to date.
- Home set-up: Change the router’s default password, use WPA3/WPA2 security, avoid public Wi-Fi or use company ZTNA/VPN.
- Phishing: Report suspicious emails; don’t reuse passwords; verify payment or bank detail changes by phone.
- Devices: Enable full-disk encryption (BitLocker/FileVault), auto-patching, and enrol BYOD/company devices in MDM.
- Files & data: Store work in approved locations; share with least-privilege access; avoid personal email for company data.
- Backups: Ensure critical files are backed up; companies should test a 3-2-1 backup and a quarterly restore.
Identity first: make accounts hard to steal
Use strong, unique passwords stored in a manager and add MFA everywhere—email, payroll, CRM, VPN/SSO, developer tools. Consider conditional access policies (block risky logins, require additional factors on new devices). The added few seconds per login stop most commodity attacks.
Hybrid working means potential for staff to use public networks
Network security without the office perimeter
When teams work across locations, protect traffic and gateways centrally. Follow the NCSC’s 10 Steps to Cyber Security for network security and monitoring. If you use third-party help, label it clearly:
- (Commercial example) Managed firewall services offer a solution by providing 24/7 monitoring and configuration reviews for distributed teams.
- Set SLAs for response times and schedule regular rule/telemetry reviews; ensure logging feeds your SIEM/SOC.
EDR/XDR on every device
Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR/XDR) uses on-device agents and cloud analytics to spot and contain threats quickly. Ensure coverage across laptops and mobiles, route alerts to a 24/7 responder, and test containment (isolate device) during drills.
AI: defend with it, prepare against it
Attackers use AI to craft convincing lures and evasive malware, while defenders use AI for detection and triage. Read the NCSC’s latest view: The near-term impact of AI on the cyber threat (now to 2027). Publish an AI acceptable-use policy covering allowed inputs, human review, logging and incident reporting, and complete DPIAs where personal data is processed.
Data hygiene & IT controls
- Least privilege: review access quarterly; remove stale accounts and over-broad shares.
- Encryption everywhere: device encryption, TLS for data in transit, and approved locations for sensitive files.
- Patching SLAs: critical patches within days; automate where possible.
- Logging: centralise endpoint, identity and network logs; define retention and alerting.
- BYOD: only with MDM/app-protection and clear separation of work/personal data.
If something goes wrong (mini incident playbook)
Disconnect from networks if safe, report quickly, don’t delete evidence. Keep a printed incident-response (IR) runbook that lists roles, contacts (suppliers, insurer, legal), and criteria for ICO notification. Rehearse a tabletop every quarter and test restores at least once a quarter for critical data.
UK frameworks & help
FAQ
Do I still need MFA if my password is strong?
Yes. MFA stops most account-takeovers even when passwords leak.
Is a home VPN enough?
Prefer modern ZTNA/conditional access with device-health checks. If using VPN, enforce MFA and split-tunnel policies.
Can I use my own laptop?
Only if enrolled in MDM/endpoint controls, with full-disk encryption and clear separation of work/personal data.
Local resources (Oxfordshire)
- OxLEP Skills — digital and cyber upskilling programmes.
- Regional cyber meetups (Thames Valley/Oxfordshire) for peer learning and supplier-neutral advice.
- NCSC “Cyber Aware” small-business campaigns.
Editor’s note: This article is general information, not legal advice. Follow official UK guidance and your sector’s rules when making security decisions.
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