Making Your Mobile Devices Safe from Cyberattacks: The 9 Best Practices

Making Your Mobile Devices Safe from Cyberattacks: The 9 Best Practices

Security has greatly improved over the years. However mobile devices are less safe than desktop computers. If you are using mobile devices for business, boosting the security of these devices is crucial.

Technological advancements have made it easier to conduct business irrespective of location. A mobile phone can now become a mobile office that allows you to communicate and access information whenever you require. However, this also means that your mobile device is now not just for making calls. Usually, a mobile device contains work emails, passwords, account details, and work-related information. That is why these mobile devices require the same level of security as other work devices.

Tablets and smartphones may require different types of security solutions to prevent cyberattacks and potential hacking attempts. There are a variety of solution measures you can use to protect your smartphones and tablets. Below are nine best practices in improving cybersecurity on mobile devices.

NINE BEST PRACTICES FOR MOBILE DEVICES

1. ESTABLISH A SOUND SECURITY POLICY

As an organisation, you need to make sure you have an effective usage policy for tablets and smartphones. The policy should clearly define usage guidelines and penalties for violating them. Your employees must be well versed with the security risks and measures that can help them reduce the risks. As with any modern workplace, BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) is also a frequent practice, and your policy should cover the use of personal devices for business. Your policy should include:

• Rules for installing any software that stores or accesses any company data
• Regular training on safeguarding company data when using wireless networks on their personal mobile devices
• Compulsory data protection procedures that automatically lock or other security measures during long inactivity periods
• Protocols for lost and stolen devices 
• Usage of security software and antivirus platforms 
• Backup requirements 

2. ENSURE THE OPERATING SYSTEM IS UP TO DATE

Similarly, like computers and laptops, mobile devices also require updating to address security vulnerabilities. Updating your operating system on your mobile device is crucial to ensure that your mobile devices are protected against potential cyberattacks. It is ideal to download and install updates as soon as it becomes available to you. Delaying updates may potentially give cybercriminals opportunities to take advantage of outdated operating systems.

3. ENABLE PASSWORD PROTECTION

Not having password protection on your mobile devices may make access easier whenever you need it. However, not having a password makes it much easier for cybercriminals to access your mobile devices. Make sure you have a complex password or PIN that cannot be easily guessed. Alternatively, you can also enable fingerprint or facial recognition if the option is available on your mobile device. Make sure you are using alphanumeric combinations if you are opting for digits and letters. Keep these passwords safe to prevent unauthorised access.

4. INSTALL WORK-RELATED PROGRAMS ONLY

For company-issued mobile devices, it may be possible to allow only the installation of work-related programs. This can prevent apps that are potentially harmful to the security of your company data. However, for personal mobile devices, it may not be possible to limit the installation of programs. There are other security methods for personal mobile devices to enable your employees to use the device for both personal and work purposes. For more information on how to allow the use of mobile devices securely, speak to us for more info.

5. AVOID PUBLIC WI-FI CONNECTIONS

If your employees need to use public Wi-Fi networks for work, this can be a method for cybercriminals to access confidential company information. Cybercriminals on the same network as you can infiltrate your device without your knowledge. To mitigate this risk, provide your mobile employees with a high-quality internet plan with roaming services. However, if there is a need to use public Wi-Fi connections, make sure that a reputable virtual private network (VPN) or secure global network (SGN) is used to securely access company data.

6. LEVERAGE PHONE TRACKING

All company-issued mobile devices should enable phone tracking features. This will allow you to locate your smartphones in case it is misplaced. You can also install programs that will enable your company administrator to remove data on your stolen devices remotely. Installing these apps will give you much-needed peace of mind. This move will minimise the risk of cybercriminals accessing your company’s data when mobile devices are lost or stolen.

7. INCORPORATE MDM (MOBILE DEVICE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE)

Integrating with Mobile Device Management Software (MDM) is an excellent way to separate personal and business information on mobile devices. MDM lets you check out device information, update and manage apps, configure your devices, create usage restrictions, and remove content remotely. Using MDM gives the company administrator control over the use of mobile devices securely. MDM also includes data encryption, strong passwords, and containers to separate personal information from enterprise data.

8. SCREEN MESSAGES CAREFULLY

Train your employees to screen every message that they receive. Cybercriminals frequently use SMS phishing to trick people into clicking on dangerous links. It is also common for them to pose as someone credible and request confidential information. Your employees should be alert whenever they receive such a message. Alert the IT department or simply block and delete the SMS.

9. BLOCKING AND WHITELISTING

Not all mobile apps are safe for use. Malicious apps may allow cybercriminals to steal data from mobile devices. Blocking and whitelisting specific apps can enable you to protect your employees from these risks. Your IT team will receive alerts when someone tries to access blocked apps. This prevents unauthorised apps from being used on company-issued devices.

SECURE ALL DEVICES USED FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Your employees may be using their mobile devices to send emails, share company info, and work on company data. You should employ the same level of security practices for all devices used for work purposes. A strict usage policy and other recommended practices can mitigate the risk of data theft or cyberattacks.

Contact us for more tips on how to secure mobile devices used to access your company data. We can help you identify and address potential security risks and provide you with suggestions on how to safeguard your company data.