Five Ways Internet Activity Has Changed Since The Pandemic

By David Gewirtz

In our last issue, we discussed the substantial rise in COVID-related scams occurring online. Now, as we prepare for the 2020 holiday season, we’re taking a look at five ways the dynamics of online activity have changed since the pandemic hit.

Not only are these changes fundamentally altering our workflows and lifestyles, they’re also opening up possible flaws in infrastructure that might be exploited by unfriendly actors.

Far More People Are Working and Studying From Home Than Ever Before

While some companies and schools have resumed Before-Times-style in-person activities, many companies and schools are operating with workers, students, and educators staying home.

Computers and tablets that may have only gotten light use, with a focus on gaming, entertainment, and homework have now become mission-critical work and study devices with use throughout the day and night.

Reliance On Home And Consumer Level Gear For Office-Level Functions

While some organizations are providing laptops for their employees, many organizations are relying on employees to supply their own gear. Even if a company provides a home working allowance for the purchase of gear, many employees are being left on their own in terms of selection, setup, and configuration.

As a result, employees are connecting into work with a hodgepodge of gear and anyone’s guess array of security configurations. Since employees were sent home to work to avoid contact, it’s not like ex...