Remote workers 'putting IT systems at risk'

Increasing numbers of employees are now taking advantage new technologies to work remotely, but Cisco has warned that many still pose a security risk to firms.

A new poll of 2,000 remote workers, sponsored by the network giant, found that corporate security officials are increasingly concerned that those working remotely are being less diligent about security threats.

Carelessness when opening emails, use of corporate machines for personal use and letting non-company personnel use their machines are all regarded as symptoms of this lackadaisical approach to IT security from remote workers, the poll suggested.

"What we've found in year two [of this survey] reinforces the need for IT to triangulate awareness, education, and communication between their teams, executives, and employees," said John Stewart, Cisco's chief security officer.

He warned that overlooking what are relatively simple problems is a major issue.

"Security awareness and education requires an understanding of your audience's culture. You have to relate to them and earn their trust. Through trust comes respect and cooperation," he said.