Did you know that your company smartphone has a more powerful computer than NASA had for the Apollo 11 moon launch? That’s a fact that puts an everyday smartphone in a whole new perspective. Protecting that mass of computing power is essential, not just to save the cost of repair or replacement. It also means protecting the data is contains, essential to your company’s cyber security.
Tip #1. Use Encryption.
Without the encryption key, hackers and robbers can’t make use of the critical data on your phone. Imagine them gaining access to your phone numbers, contact info, serial numbers, credit card information and other important knowledge.
In addition, install a respected app that will remotely track your phone and allow you to lock or erase personal information on it remotely. Some of these apps will even set off an alarm, notifying people in its vicinity that it has been stolen. A few will actually take photo of the thief, so you can send it to the police.
Make your password hard to guess. Your dog’s name isn’t enough any more. Use a mix of capital letters, lowercase, punctuation and numbers. Change the password regularly. And always write it down somewhere safe. You can also use a password manager that is located somewhere beside your phone.
Tip #2. Install Security Patches.
Security patches are issued because experts have discovered ways that hackers can get to your important data. They only work if you install them regularly. Don’t leave your smartphone vulnerable.
Tip #3. Backup Your Data Regularly.
If the worst does happen and your phone is stolen or the data is attacked by malware, you will lose your precious photos, contact info emails, videos, in fact everything you’ve got stored. Set up a schedule for backing it up to a cloud service, USB drive or your computer.
Tip #4. Make Company Rules About Bring-Your-Own-Device Use.
It might appear to be a good way to save money, by allowing individual employees to use their own smartphones on your business network. It is also convenient for workers because they only have to keep track of one phone. But what if malware infects their phone? Since it is connected to your network, that malware moves to every phone and mobile device in the system.
Evaluate the risks and make firm rules about whether or not workers can use their own devices. Limit the types of activities that employees can do that involve your company network.
Tip #5. Carry Business Insurance.
Many wireless providers, as well as third parties, offer insurance to cover smartphones if they are lost or stolen. This can save a lot of money in the long run since replacement is expensive.
In addition, consider the advantages of cyber liability insurance. It is made to handle the consequences of a data breach, covering the cost of notifying everyone concerned. These policies also offer help when you need to repair your firm’s damaged reputation. In extreme cases, it can help with negotiations with cyber-extortionists.
