Our phones and tablets are goldmines of private information. Just think of all the financial details, personal messages, banking apps, photos, and contact information behind those little glass screens.
And if your team uses mobile devices for work, they’ll often have access straight into company systems – email, contact lists, network access, and file systems. So, if they’re not kept as secure as any other device in your workplace, they can become a gaping hole in your cybersecurity.
Criminals know this, of course, which is why they target us through our mobile devices just as much as they do through our networks and servers.
But cybercrime isn’t the only concern. Losing your mobile device, or having it stolen, can put your data at tremendous risk.
So, whether you issue company smartphones and tablets or your employees use their own, you should ensure everyone implements simple security steps to protect your data and avoid disaster.
Start with making sure your people set up a PIN and a biometric login (like a fingerprint or face scan) to open the device.
Only install apps from trusted sources to ensure you use genuine software.
And enable Multi-Factor Authentication on all apps that store even a small amount of sensitive data.
Be careful about where you connect to Wi-Fi. If you work remotely or often connect to public networks, consider using a VPN – a Virtual Private Network – to add another layer of security. You never know who’s monitoring traffic on a public network.
ALWAYS ensure your mobile devices are running the latest version of their operating software and keep all apps up to date.
Implementing an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) and Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution is also essential for businesses. The AUP sets guidelines on how employees should use their devices, covering topics such as acceptable apps, data usage, and security practices. By clearly defining these rules, businesses can minimize the risk of data breaches and other cyber threats.
MDM solutions provide centralized control and management of mobile devices, enabling businesses to monitor, secure, and update devices remotely. MDM can help enforce security policies, manage app installations, and even remotely wipe sensitive data from a lost or stolen device. Integrating MDM into your business's mobile strategy is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of your data.
Smartphones and tablets have changed so much about how we live – at home and work – but taking them for granted is too easy. And that could be a costly mistake. Prioritizing mobile security through Acceptable Use Policies and Mobile Device Management can make all the difference in safeguarding your business and its valuable data.
If you need help keeping your mobile devices safe, get in touch.