How much time do you spend in your office? For most small business owners, the answer is "not much" — they're checking in on projects, finding new business opportunities and looking for ways to boost the bottom line. However, being away from home base can make it difficult to juggle both office security and on-site operations.

The solution? Remote security technologies.

Small Businesses Need IT Security

Small businesses face an uphill security battle. As noted by SC Magazine, 38 percent of SMBs spend nothing on IT security and just five percent think they're potential targets of attack. This same mentality often applies to office security: SMBs assume their size makes them a less-tempting target for criminals.

The problem is that malicious actors know many smaller businesses often avoid spending much on security, which makes them easier to attack. Even more worrisome? If companies don't invest in reasonable security measures, insurance may not cover damages or loss.

Connected Cameras Keep an Eye on Things

So, what does this mean for owners who are often away from their desks and their office? It's worth investing in mobile-enabled security cameras. These wireless devices can be set up anywhere and provide access (at any time) to what's happening at your home base. Depending on your preference, it's possible to have camera feeds available only if you're using in-office Wi-Fi or leveraging secure encryption to allow observation from home or on the road.

What's more, you can control these cameras directly from your smartphone — meaning you no longer have to contend with bulky, tape-based surveillance systems and limited access. Cloud-based solutions also let you control your door locks, alarm system and lights, allowing you to keep out unwanted visitors and make it appear that someone is always on-site at your office.

Fleet Monitoring Ensures Accountability

Many small business employees often have to travel to multiple job sites to get the job done. Due to this fact, it's a good idea to stamp your logo on vehicles, as this calls attention to your business and inspires confidence. It's also worth investing in business vehicle tracking technology for your fleet, according to Startups. As the source explains, "with vehicle tracking, you can monitor your drivers' routes, speeds and arrival times, as well as [ensure] that the proper checks and stops are made."

This not only lets you ensure that vehicles are where they're supposed to be but also confirm that staff arrived on time and followed local speed laws. These technologies can help identify potential workforce problems and protect you against litigation or insurance fraud since you always know exactly where your trucks are located.

Mobile Mandates Shore Up Vulnerabilities

Employees frequently rely on mobile devices to maintain productivity, especially in the field. Employee monitoring tools are quickly gaining ground as companies look to limit the risk of compromise.

So what does monitoring look like for SMB owners? Typically, it's done through software that tracks the staff's use of business networks, in addition to monitoring company email accounts and tracking company-issued mobile devices.

Of all the security technologies mentioned, this one comes with the biggest risk. As noted by TechRepublic, it's critical for owners to tell their employees that company emails are being monitored. Remember, employees are still entitled to a measure of privacy even on business-owned devices. When it comes to mobile technology, owners need an effective way to track device use and protect employees in the event of potential customer complaints.

If you're not in the office, you're out building the business — but this doesn't mean that office and operational security have to suffer. Instead, opt for wireless cameras, fleet monitoring and mobile solutions to improve total security.