In a bid to improve cybersecurity and safeguard sensitive information, Google has initiated a pilot program where a group of employees will work without internet access.
The move aims to curb cyberattacks, as Googlers are often targeted by malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to the company’s internal data.
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According to internal company documents, the designated employees will utilize computers with internet access disabled, except for specific internal tools and Google sites like Drive or Gmail.
Furthermore, these employees will be prohibited from installing any new software on their workstations to minimize potential vulnerabilities.
Nonetheless, Google has acknowledged that certain exceptions will be made for employees who require internet access to fulfill their job responsibilities effectively.
Initially, the tech giant selected 2,500 individuals for participation in the program, but later allowed them to opt-out, while also permitting other employees to volunteer.
The primary objective of this pilot program is to minimize the risk of cyberattacks by preventing unauthorized code execution or internal data theft, as highlighted in the internal description provided to CNBC.
By limiting most internet access, Google aims to create a more secure working environment for its employees and safeguard its proprietary information.
It is believed that this security measure may be driven by Google’s pursuit of US government contracts, which led to the establishment of the Google Public Sector division last year.
The heightened concern over security comes in the wake of reports of Chinese hackers targeting customer emails, including those used by government agencies, as recently announced by Microsoft.
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JPMorgan has also raised alarms about the growing threat of cyberattacks, prompting increased spending on security measures, according to a report by Insider in May.
SurgeZirc SA reached out to Google for comment, but the company has not yet responded.
