Business as unusual: City trends for the new normal

Adjusting to life in lockdown has been hard, but a glimmer of hope is on the horizon. COVID-19 has changed the way we live and work. What will our jobs and living spaces be like when we return to the 'new normal?' Here are the trends that could shape the future of work, technologies empowering these shifts and how we can make this new tech-forward way of life safe from cybercriminals.

Cybersecurity crucial for homes of the future

Working at home has meant a rise in intelligent buildings and smart homes. From keyless entry to voice-activated elevators, the demand for hands-off tech is up. And as you'd expect, the numbers using laptops at home has increased. As we're becoming more reliant on home technology, we need to secure our homes against hackers – like securely configuring home Wi-Fi and using strong unique passwords to protect devices and control panels.

Recent Kaspersky research shows 58 percent use internet security software beyond what's built in, most (65 percent) agree antivirus software is a must-have for good 'digital hygiene,' but only 48 percent password-protect their Wi-Fi.

Pop-up workspaces mean less time in the office

As we plan for life after the pandemic, most workers will likely head to the office just two or three days a week. This has a huge impact on how employers will use their properties, if they keep using them at all. Low-cost alternatives are small private offices, hot desks and co-working spaces.

Pop-up workspaces mean virtual work will be available to anyone who wants it. But without the protection of business cybersecurity, individuals need to protect themselves and their employers. A simple tip: Turn on your virtual private network (VPN) at home or on public Wi-Fi – to protect your and your employer's data.

Rise of Zoom towns and 15-minute cities

COVID-19 has seen many turn and look outward – living outside cities. Millions are changing small apartments for bigger properties further from city centers and closer to green spaces. Meanwhile, Zoom towns have arisen: Vacation destinations turned virtual working hotspots by those escaping the city.

The 15-minute city, where everything from shops to parks are within 15 minutes from home, is now a reality for many. Huge malls are making way for grocery stores, only a bike ride away. All this means people spending more time in their neighborhoods and prioritizing lifestyle, based on affordability, commercial infrastructure, parks or whatever they value most.