Smartphones have taken over from laptops as most people’s preferred portable work tool.
They enjoy the flexibility and, perhaps obviously, they’re easier to carry around than a laptop or a tablet.
It means that mobile connectivity and reliable broadband have become two of the largest IT considerations. In turn, that creates a different set of security risks.
If a number of your people need a phone to do their job, here’s a big thought: Would they be better off using a work-issued phone instead?
If an employee has contact with customers, would you want to own their phone number in case they left?
And there are security considerations that might be best handled on company-issued phones. That includes rolling out security updates, managing secure mobile gateways, and administering passwords.
You should make sure data on the device is encrypted, not only to protect data from cyber criminals, but to make sure your information is safe should the phone be lost or stolen. Can the phone be remotely wiped?
The software installed on the phone should be policed too. You may need a policy that limits or blocks the use of third-party software. This can also help establish a boundary between work and personal tasks.
As with most tech, this isn’t a case of set it and forget it. You need to make sure updates are run on time, and remotely audit company-issued devices to ensure they’re secure and protected.
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