The rise of remote work has transformed UAE homes into mini-offices. But as families increasingly share devices, a concerning trend has emerged: a significant security risk lurking within our own homes.
A recent Cisco study unveiled a startling reality: 91% of working parents in the UAE share personal work devices with their children. While convenience may be the primary driver, this practice has severe security implications.
“The rise of remote work combined with the increasing prevalence of shared devices within families presents significant security challenges,” warns Fady Younes, Managing Director for Cybersecurity at Cisco Middle East, Africa, Türkiye, Romania, and CIS. “It’s crucial for organizations to not only implement robust security measures but also to engage with employees in understanding their unique home environments.”
The study reveals that 40% of parents allow unsupervised access to their devices, exposing sensitive work information to potential threats. Even those who set passwords often leave devices unattended, compromising security.
The problem extends beyond occasional sharing. Over 90% of working parents have shared devices with children in the past six months, blurring the lines between personal and professional lives. Yet, basic security measures remain alarmingly low. Only 24% of those sharing devices use multi-factor authentication (MFA), while a majority rely on passwords, which can be easily compromised.
As the number of connected devices in homes continues to soar, businesses must adapt their security strategies. IT teams need to consider the real-world challenges of working in chaotic home environments, where device sharing and unsupervised access are common.
The convenience of shared devices often outweighs security concerns. However, businesses cannot afford to ignore these emerging threats. By fostering a culture of security awareness and implementing robust measures, organizations can mitigate the risks and protect sensitive information.
