7 Cybersecurity Tips for Moving to a New Office

Moving to a new office is an exciting opportunity to grow your business, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Beyond the logistics of packing desks and setting up a new layout is an often-overlooked concern: computer security. Throughout any office relocation, cybersecurity should remain one of your top priorities to prevent cyber attacks and protect sensitive company data.

Here are some practical cybersecurity tips to ensure your move goes smoothly and your systems stay protected.

  1. Update and Secure Your Systems Before the Move

When moving computer equipment, ensure all systems are updated with the latest patches and security software. Delaying updates could leave your devices vulnerable to exploitation, especially during the transition when your IT resources might be stretched.

Boxer Tip: Coordinate with your IT team or service provider to create a pre-move checklist for applying security updates to all devices. Staying on top of updates will help you maintain a top security posture during the transition.

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  1. Backup Your Data

Data loss is one of the most common challenges during an office relocation. Before moving any hardware, back up all essential company data to a secure cloud service or external storage. This ensures that even if something goes wrong, your critical files are safe and easily recoverable.

Boxer Tip: Choose a cloud storage provider offering multiple layers of encryption for added cybersecurity solutions. This extra layer of security will protect your data from breaches during the move.

  1. Limit Access to Passwords and Credentials

With the chaos of moving, it’s easy to slip into the habit of sharing passwords and access credentials with team members who wouldn’t normally have them. However, this increases the risk of sensitive data ending up in the wrong hands or being misused.

Boxer Tip: Use password management tools to securely share credentials if necessary, and ensure that employees adhere to strict access controls during the move.

  1. Secure Your Network at the New Location

Before setting up shop in your new office, ensure that your Wi-Fi network is secure and ready to handle your operations. Avoid using public or unsecured networks at any point during the move, as these can leave your systems vulnerable to malware attacks.

Checklist for a secure network setup

  • Set strong passwords for your router and Wi-Fi network.
  • Enable firewalls and VPNs for additional protection.
  • Test connectivity in the new space before enabling access for the entire office.
  • These steps will help you avoid relying on questionable connections that could compromise your computer security.
  1. Label and Organize Your IT Equipment

Labeling hardware and cables may not seem directly tied to cybersecurity, but it helps reduce errors when setting up your systems in the new location. Misplaced devices or cables can lead to unnecessary delays or mistakes that might compromise security measures.

Ensure that every piece of equipment is accounted for and marked with clear labels to make reinstallation seamless.

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  1. Reassess and Update Security Policies

Your move is the perfect opportunity to evaluate and update your organization’s cybersecurity policies. This might include implementing stricter access controls, updating your incident response plan, or introducing cybersecurity solutions such as two-factor authentication (2FA).

Encourage staff to brush up on cybersecurity best practices and ensure they are aware of the importance of protecting company data during the move.

Boxer Tip: Host a short workshop or webinar with your IT team to educate employees on avoiding phishing scams and securing their accounts in your new office.

  1. Test Everything Post-Move

Once you’ve settled into your new office, don’t assume your systems will operate as they did before the move. Conduct thorough testing of all hardware, software, and network connections to identify any potential vulnerabilities.

Testing priorities

  • Verify all devices are functioning correctly.
  • Check network connectivity and firewalls.
  • Test backup data access to ensure everything transferred securely.
  • By being proactive, you can catch issues early and minimize downtime.

Secure your technology, safeguard your data, and protect your business from potential cyber attacks during your move. Taking these precautions now will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Planning an office move? Start fresh with confidence in one of Boxer Property’s top-tier, highly secure office spaces. Contact us today to find your perfect office where security meets success!

About Boxer Property

Boxer Property is celebrating over 30 years as an innovative commercial real estate investment and management company. Boxer Property Management Corporation is a privately held firm based in Houston that manages, leases, and administers retail, medical, hospitality, and office properties with over 15 million square feet across more than 140 locations nationwide. For more information, visit BoxerProperty.com

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