Why is mobile security important?
Mobile security protects business devices and personal devices from cyber attacks. A cyber attack could potentially result in the loss of sensitive data, leading to reputational damage and/or financial consequences. Hackers have been known to steal bank information, login information, health information and more.
While mobile devices can empower organizations and individuals, they can also compromise them. Everyone should strive to stay ahead of cyber threats. There are many means of doing so, as outlined below.
What steps can organizations and individuals take to limit cyber threats?
Everyone downloads apps. However, some apps can look identical to authentic apps, but may instead harbor malicious code. Apps may also be constructed with built-in adware; another dangerous cyber snare. Both organizations and individuals should regularly update the software on mobile devices in order to block malicious app downloads.
Employees and others may fall victim to phishing attempts. Text messages about package deliveries or from a person’s bank can actually be fake. Responding to these types of text messages (or emails) can result in significant fallout. Installing security software onto phones can potentially prevent successful phishing attempts.
How can organizations develop a mobile security plan?
CISOs and cyber security architects should consider current security efforts and determine how they compare to the current threat landscape. However, solely focusing on the technological aspect of cyber security can lead to a lopsided set or results. Instead, cyber security focused professionals should also consider employee education initiatives that can raise awareness about cyber security. Implementing and restructuring corporate policies around mobile security governance can help too.
What else can you do to keep mobile devices secure?
- Ensure that mobile devices are password protected
- Ensure that mobile device storage is encrypted
- Memorize emergency contact information
- Enable your IT team to delete corporate app data from a remote location
Android vs iOS: Is one safer than the other?
This question is more complex than can be accounted for in a few short paragraphs.
Nonetheless, Android security has received criticism on account of the fact that there isn’t a specific organization that is responsible for it. Google does offer a certain degree of Android security. The majority of Android owners can keep phones secure by avoiding suspicious looking apps. In contrast with the way in which Android operates, Apple Inc. is broadly responsible for the security of iOS systems. Apple also ensures that applications available via its app store are as secure as possible.
However, unlike with Android, Apple’s apps have a few restrictions. For example, individuals who wish to have a work version of a particular app on their phone and a personal version of a particular app on their phone are barred from doing so. Only a single version of a given app is allowed.
At the end of the day, both Android and iOS phones are vulnerable to cyber intrusions. Understanding security best practices can assist both organizations and individuals in skirting cyber threats.
What if we stop using mobile devices?
Well, you could, but you might lose business opportunities or personal connections. If everyone takes an appropriate level of responsibility for managing mobile devices, then issues are less likely to emerge.