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Cybersecurity Best Practices

Strong cybersecurity practices protect your organization, your interns, and your operations. Clear boundaries and proactive habits reduce risk and support a safe, professional internship environment.

Step 1: Use Verified Communication Channels Only

Keep all internship communication within official company channels.

Use:

  • Company email domain
  • Corporate Slack or Microsoft Teams
  • The Virtual Internships platform

Avoid personal accounts or social media messages for work-related communication, as these increase impersonation and fraud risk.

Step 2: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Add an extra layer of protection to company systems.

  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on company accounts and collaboration tools
  • Ask interns to activate 2FA on their assigned accounts
  • Share clear setup instructions where needed

2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Step 3: Be Transparent About Sensitive Tasks

If interns support work involving financial or confidential processes:

  • Outline the scope clearly in writing
  • Loop in Virtual Internships where appropriate

Transparency helps prevent fraud and builds trust.

Step 4: Do Not Assign Financial Transactions to Interns

Interns should never:

  • Make purchases or payments
  • Transfer funds
  • Use personal accounts or money for company tasks

They may support related work such as research, data entry, or documentation. All transactions must remain within authorized company systems.

Step 5: Set Clear Red-Flag Boundaries

Confirm early that your company will never ask interns to:

  • Handle or transfer money
  • Purchase gift cards or vouchers
  • Share login credentials or personal account details

Clear boundaries reduce exposure to common scams.

Step 6: Report Suspicious Activity Immediately

If you or your intern receive a suspicious request or message:

  • Do not respond
  • Notify Virtual Internships immediately

Early reporting helps contain risks and protect all parties.

Step 7: Reinforce Everyday Digital Safety

Encourage interns to:

  • Double-check sender addresses
  • Verify unfamiliar links before clicking
  • Pause before acting on urgent or unusual requests

Consistent reminders support awareness and accountability.