Tech giant is looking to protect itself from cyberattacks
Some employees at tech giant Google will be restricted from using the internet as part of the organization's latest measure to protect itself from cyberattacks, according to reports. CNBC reported this week that Google is launching a new pilot programme that will disable internet access on select desktops, except for internal web-based tools and Google-owned websites.
The programme, which initially had 2,500 participants, allows employees to withdraw or volunteer for the scheme.
Google said its latest policy seeks to prevent attackers from easily running arbitrary code remotely or grab data if an employee's device is compromised. A spokesperson also told CNBC that the organization wants to ensure the safety of its products and users.
"We routinely explore ways to strengthen our internal systems against malicious attacks," they told CNBC.
Last month, Google's parent company Alphabet also reportedly warned its staff against entering confidential material into AI chatbots. It also told its engineers to avoid direct use of computer code that chatbots can generate, Reuters reported.
Protection against cyberattacks
Data from software provider KnowBe4 has revealed that almost a third (33.2%) of an organisation's employee base are at risk of clicking a phishing email prior to receiving training.
"Cybercriminals still know that the easiest way to successfully infiltrate an organisation is through its people," it said in a blog post.
To reduce the risk of cyberattacks, the software provider offered the following tips:
- Foster a resilient security culture
- Increase the frequency of security awareness training
- Regularly test employees with frequent simulated phishing campaigns
- Work with experts
