Top 3 Tips for Securing Mobile Devices for Small Business
A business’s IT security issues have traditionally been confined to a business’s physical location, but the proliferation of mobile devices in the workplace has changed that. Workers are now able to remotely access their company’s data, which extends a business’s informational boundaries far beyond its four walls. Mobile devices create multiple access points for security threats such as identification fraud and malware. Furthermore, mobile devices are easily lost or stolen, making your business more vulnerable to the disclosure of sensitive information such as intellectual property and customers’ personal data.
The widespread use of mobile devices also means that small businesses now face the same security threats that have historically affected only enterprises. The principles for ensuring mobile security are essentially the same, regardless of the number of employees using mobile devices. The most effective methods of securing mobile devices include educating employees, developing an IT policy and implementing a security tool.
1. Educate Your Employees
Employees are often unaware of the risks that mobile devices pose to a company’s security. Basic education can increase security awareness and promote minor changes in behavior that can greatly reduce a business’s risk profile. For example, instructing employees to put a password on their mobile devices can minimize the threat posed by a stolen smartphone.
Employee education is particularly important for small businesses that don’t have a dedicated IT department. It’s therefore essential to think about how employees log on and use their mobile devices. Regular company-wide memos are an inexpensive way to help employees protect their mobile devices against new threats.
2. Develop an IT Policy
The use of mobile devices makes an official IT policy essential for all businesses. This document should provide employees with clear guidelines on the prohibited uses of their mobile devices, especially for businesses with a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy.
For example, the IT policy should specify that mobile devices need to use data encryption to access sensitive data. The company server should also deny access to any device that doesn’t have this feature enabled. Businesses without an IT department may also benefit from a consultant for assistance in developing an IT policy that provides adequate security guidelines.
3. Implement a Security Tool
Many commercial security solutions are currently available for businesses of all sizes. The ability to manage security across multiple devices is one of the most features to look for in a security tool, especially for a company with a highly mobile workforce. A solution that manages passwords for devices and files can also be highly effective in reducing the workload of maintaining a secure working environment. Additional features that can improve mobile security include file encryption, which allows users to send sensitive information over a public network.
Summary
CCSi provides IT security for small business owners in the San Diego area. We can also perform mobile device management for your company, allowing you to focus on your core business. Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your IT security needs.
