It is common for people to rely on their personal phones to stay connected at work as more companies continue to switch to Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) plans.
But whoever owns the device, you need to make security your top priority. Cyber criminals know how much valuable information lives on our mobile devices, and they are making phones even more of a target this year.
If you do not already have a mobile security and management strategy in place, it is time you did. Here are our top five ways to keep phones secure:
Set minimum upgrade requirements
Cyber crooks and device manufacturers both work in three-year cycles. That means that, as threats evolve, so do the protections that address them. Upgrade devices to follow this cycle, and even if you are using BYOD, enforce this rule if employees want to use their personal phone for work.
Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM)
MDM allows you to track the location of devices, lock/wipe their data remotely, and can help you access remote support for any issues. That means your data stays safe, even in cases of a lost or stolen phone. You can also create a list of apps that are to be blocked for security reasons.
Set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Make sure all devices have biometric locks requiring facial or fingerprint ID to open them, and that all apps require MFA to log in. Only allow employees access to the software and files they need for their job.
Always update everything
Like all your devices, phones need to have the latest updates installed as soon as they become available. If you have MDM in place, it is possible to schedule updates across the entire team at the same time – ask us for more info.
Regular awareness training
You should hold regular cyber security training for your team that includes mobile devices. Your people are your weakest link when it comes to security. Keeping them up to speed on security risks can improve compliance.
It is easy to overlook mobile devices when it comes to keeping your data secure, but it is a vital step in protecting yourself against cyber-attacks. As always, River Run can help.
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