Nowadays, it’s hard to image a vibrant office life without smartphones all around.
Businesses are adopting Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies left and right. This strategy introduces more flexibility, productivity, and innovation to the workplace. But, while it has advantages, BYOD also brings a fair share of security risks such as data leaks.
Smartphones are weak links hackers and corporate spies seek to exploit. They could cause you to lose payment card information and other vital details.
So, you need to embrace the best security practices and protect the IT infrastructure. Here is how to ramp up mobile security and stay on the safe side.
A Double-Edged Sword
Smartphones are powerful business tools and mainstays of activity-based office design.
One can use them to store files, conduct finances, and communicate with fellow employees. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exciting possibilities. It’ clear you have to tap into this portable resource in order to remain competitive.
But, for small businesses operating on a shoestring budget, this usually means one thing. They tend to allow workers to bring their own smartphones to work. Simply put, they lack funds to provide company-issued devices.
The main problem with this approach is that it creates potential security loopholes. This is especially the case when employees store sensitive business and customer data on their phones.
Playing it Smart
To minimize the risks, put various security measures in place.
Determine in which instances should you grant and deny business network access. For instance, there’s no need for ex-employees to retain access credentials. You also don’t want jail-broken devices and suspicious apps undermining the integrity of your network.
Moving on, consider separating personal from business data. You can do this by setting up a virtual desktop infrastructure or mobile device management protocol. A cost-effective alternative would be private cloud storage or a managed IT service.
Furthermore, you want to download anti-spyware programs to prevent unpleasant surprises. While at it, install the firewall, anti-spam, and antivirus solutions as well.
Remember to carry out scans on a regular basis to flush out any malicious presence.
In the Clear
The next key task is to establish a code of conduct governing the use of private devices.
Encourage everyone to use strong passwords as part of double or triple password protection. Consider encrypting all sensitive data to make it harder for thieves to penetrate your defenses.
Workers should also use device-locking passwords and try not to ever lose their precious phones. A little caution goes a long, long way.
Finally, notice using smartphones away from the office is extremely risky. Unprotected Wi-Fi connections are a definite no go. Implore people to avoid synchronizing their devices with them.
The list of measures and policies goes on, so explore further on your own. Never take security for granted— fight for it every day.
Time to Face the Problem of Data Leaks
BYOD is becoming a norm across industry sectors.
It gives businesses a nice competitive edge in the digital economy. The amazing benefits are related to heightened productivity and workflow flexibility.
Alas, over-reliance on smartphones can open the floodgates to various security threats. Among other things, it makes you prone to data leaks.
Thus, you have to safeguard access to your network and shield data. Adhere to best practices and develop a set of security policies and protocols. Define who can use smartphones, where exactly, and for what purposes.
In case you require managed security solutions, get in touch with us right away.
