The growing need for data mobility and corporate devices makes it vital for companies to implement cybersecurity strategies that are adapted to new scenarios and challenges. Business mobile devices are not just for the sake of convenience now, they are fundamental to driving performance and reaching success in the hybrid working world.
However, the cybersecurity risks associated with having a fleet of business mobiles needs to be mitigated. Because mobile devices are so intrinsically linked to corporate networks, a breach in mobile security can have a devastating impact on a company’s entire IT infrastructure which would lead to downtime as well as loss of business and brand credibility.
Check Point has put together some helpful tips to avoid potential security breaches:
1. Refresh user authentication
It’s important to establish security measures such as screen locking using a password or built-in biometric authentication. This limits unauthorised access and forms a first barrier that keeps information on the phone protected.
2. Encrypting data on mobile devices
Data encryption is a fundamental solution to protect both the information stored on the devices and the information that it sends. Without the decryption key, unauthorised users won’t be able to access the data. Also, consider VPN since this provides a secure Internet connection by using private servers in remote locations. All data travelling between the device and the VPN server is securely encrypted.
3. Keep the apps and operating systems updated
Updating your device to ensure you have the latest available operating system is vital. It’s also vital to ensure the programmes and applications installed on the device are kept up to date. New updates usually have the latest security fixes and patches.
4. Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks
These types of connections are unprotected and pose a very high risk to corporate data since they are easily hacked through man-in-the-middle attacks. It is therefore important to turn off the “automatic connection” function on your mobile device.
5. Limit application downloads to trusted sources
Downloading and installing any type of program that come from third-party sources can pose a serious risk to the privacy of corporate information, as well as to the integrity of the device itself.
6. Don't forget to backup
In case of a mobile breach, a mobile malware attack that makes the data inaccessible, or simply because a device is lost or stolen, the impact of the data loss should be minimized by having it accessible and up-to-date elsewhere. Make automated backups from mobile devices part of the IT security routine.
7. Enable remote data access and deletion
The possibility of theft or loss of a device means it is important to have access tools to lock it and even remotely delete the data it contains. In this way, unwanted access to sensitive corporate information is prevented.
8. Take precautions against mobile phishing
Check Point’s Brand Phishing Report states that mobile phones are the preferred target of cybercriminals, as 23% of attacks of this type during the first quarter of the year were directed at smartphones. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or files that could trigger the download of malware.
9. Browse only secure websites
When visiting a website from a mobile device, make sure it is protected with an SSL security certificate (check for HTTPS before the domain name), which encrypts the user’s data.
10. Conduct security audits on mobile devices
It is important to periodically check the “health” of mobile devices to detect vulnerabilities and security holes that may pose a risk to the entire corporate network.
Don’t leave your mobile security to chance, access the 2021 Check Point Mobile Security Report today to learn more about how you can protect your mobile workforce. Access your free copy here.
