Security Awareness Month includes cautionary tips about mobile technologies. As these devices increase in popularity within today's workforce, "scary" cyber threats are increasing as well. To protect your business, take proactive steps to manage and protect company mobile devices. Here are some guidelines you should "treat" your team to.
Ensure Mobile OS is Up to Date
Apple and Android operating systems (OS) update's most important function is to fix security vulnerabilities. Reduce your business’s exposure to threats by installing updates for all devices as soon as they become available. Don’t delay updates, as doing so gives cybercriminals ample time to exploit vulnerabilities on devices that run on an outdated OS.
Install Business Applications Only
Downloading apps seems harmless. However, lenient policies on what should and shouldn’t be downloaded on company mobile devices could lead to staff installing non-business-related apps, many of which are notorious for malicious advertising codes and other threats. Employees must download and install only business applications necessary for their work on their company-issued mobile devices.
Be Careful When Connecting to Public Wi-Fi
Emergencies may compel your staff to use password-free Wi-Fi networks in hotels, airports, cafes, and other public places. Connecting to an open network can expose your confidential information and sensitive company data to cybercriminals connected to the same network. You can avoid this by providing a practical internet data plan for remote workers, preferably one that includes roaming services. And if connecting to a public Wi-Fi network is really necessary, using a reputable virtual private network (VPN) can help protect your sensitive data. A VPN creates a direct, secure connection for data from your end to your intended point on the internet.
Enable Phone Tracking Tools
Devices can be misplaced or stolen, but enabling Find My iPhone for iOS devices, GPS Phone Tracker for Android, or any device-tracking app helps users locate lost phones. Some also have the option to delete data on stolen devices. Downloading and setting up such an app takes only a few minutes, and it will give you peace of mind knowing that even if your phone is lost or stolen, its contents will not be compromised.
Screen SMS Carefully
SMS phishing can be used to trick you into clicking malicious links. Cybercriminals send messages purporting to be from someone you know, asking you to disclose confidential information urgently. Should you encounter such an SMS, you can either delete it or alert your IT department. You can also block unknown senders without even opening their messages.
Mobile devices are becoming more critical to operations. And with more devices open to attacks, businesses must bolster their cybersecurity efforts. Malicious actors will exploit every possible vulnerability, and that includes those in unsecured smartphones and tablets. Adept Solutions can help you protect your mobile devices. Give us a call, 530-751-5100.
