Since the pandemic, hybrid working has become established in many companies: a few days in the office, a few days at home – flexible, efficient, and popular. But with this flexibility, the risks to sensitive company data also increase. New challenges are emerging, especially when it comes to data protection:  

• What happens to confidential notes at home?  
• How are printouts and drafts properly and securely destroyed?  
• Who monitors compliance with GDPR regulations in the home office?  

Hybrid working is here to stay – but data protection has often not yet caught up. Without clear rules and technical support, even small oversights can have significant consequences for data security.  

What data is created in hybrid working? 

Even though communication is increasingly conducted via digital tools, a great deal of information continues to be created on paper in everyday work. Often out of habit, convenience, or because complex issues can be better structured on paper. Typical examples: 

• Customer data from CRM systems, printed out for discussion  
• Drafts and ideas on handwritten notes  
• Printouts of quotes, contracts or invoices  
• Shipping labels containing personal data  
• Internal process documents or work instructions  

These documents contain sensitive information and are therefore subject to data protection requirements. Improper handling can not only cause reputational damage but also result in legal consequences.  

The solution: Security concept for hybrid teams  

To ensure data protection and information security even when working from home, clear structures, binding rules, and the right equipment are needed. Here are five concrete measures companies should take now:  

1. Clear guidelines for employees  

• What data may be printed?  
• How should printouts be stored and destroyed? 

2. Equip home offices with document shredders 

• Compact, quiet devices with security level P-4 or higher
• Immediate destruction instead of temporary storage in the wastebasket or on the desk 

3. Training and awareness campaigns 

• Regular training on data protection topics specifically for hybrid working
• Practical tips for handling sensitive data in the private environment  

4. Checklists  

• For regular data protection checks in the home office 

5. Central return options  

• For example, collection boxes in the office where sensitive documents from the home office can be collected and properly disposed of  

Data protection is teamwork  

A modern security concept doesn't just think digitally. It also considers analog behavior – especially when handling paper. Conscious handling of paper documents is a crucial component of corporate security. Companies that act proactively here not only minimize the risk of data protection violations and fines, but also sustainably strengthen the trust of their customers and employees.  

Hybrid working requires new data protection solutions.  

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Download the checklist now: "Data protection in the home office – what you really need to consider"