Don’t forget your phone when you think about cyber security
The amount of sensitive information stored on our phones is staggering. Financial details, personal messages, banking apps, photos, and contact information are just a few examples of the data that can be accessed through the small glass screen. This is particularly concerning when employees use their phones for work, as they may have access to
The amount of sensitive information stored on our phones is staggering. Financial details, personal messages, banking apps, photos, and contact information are just a few examples of the data that can be accessed through the small glass screen.
This is particularly concerning when employees use their phones for work, as they may have access to company systems, including email, contact lists, network access, and file systems. If these devices are not kept secure, they can become a significant vulnerability in your company’s cybersecurity.
Criminals are well aware of this vulnerability and frequently target phones for cyberattacks. Additionally, losing or having your phone stolen can put your data at risk. Therefore, it is essential to implement security measures to protect your data and avoid disaster, whether you issue company smartphones or your employees use their own.
Here’s our simple advice on how to keep your smartphone safe:
- To begin, ensure that all employees set up a PIN and biometric login, such as a fingerprint or face scan, to open their devices. This is also a Cyber Essentials requirement.
- Only install apps from trusted sources to ensure that you are using genuine software.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all apps that store even a small amount of sensitive data.
- Be cautious when connecting to Wi-Fi, particularly when working remotely or connecting to public networks. Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to add another layer of security.
- Lastly, always keep your phone’s operating software up-to-date and ensure that all apps are updated regularly.
Smartphones have revolutionised the way we live and work, but it is easy to take them for granted. Neglecting to secure these devices could be a costly mistake.
If you require assistance in safeguarding your smartphones, do not hesitate to contact us.