- Define security policies
Companies should define clear guidelines for the handling of end devices and, to this end, conduct regular, mandatory training and education for all employees. For example, the guidelines should prescribe how employees should handle links received by e-mail, foreign WLAN networks or apps from the public App Store. In addition, security policies should require employees to update software on their devices in a timely manner. This is because the purpose of these updates is to close any security gaps that have arisen. Outdated operating systems on devices can pose a huge risk to businesses.
In general, it is advisable to follow the “zero trust” principle when defining security policies and strategies. The concept involves not trusting any user, device or application service inside or outside your own network, and checking every interaction. This ensures that sensitive data does not fall into the wrong hands.
- Use Unified Endpoint Management Systems
A Unified Endpoint Management System (UEM) makes it possible to centrally manage all devices and their content and applications and to define and enforce individual security policies for them. In addition, in the event of theft, sensitive content can be deleted from the device via the system and attacks can be registered at an early stage and treated with countermeasures. After an attack, UEM systems can provide valuable information about the hackers’ actions, so that the findings can then be used to improve security measures.
In addition to an increased security standard, a UEM system relieves the burden on the IT department and enables employees to work effectively and securely on the move. When selecting a suitable UEM system for their equipment fleet, companies should start from their individual needs, compare several solutions and preferably seek advice from an independent body.
- Use dedicated security solutions
In addition to a UEM system, dedicated security solutions can be used to secure mobile devices. In this way, the protection of company data against diverse and complex cyber threats can be achieved to a greater extent. As a rule, security solutions can be easily integrated into the UEM system used.
The market offers a wide range of solutions: There are comprehensive security solutions (such as Lookout or MobileIron Threat Defense), which aim to protect against different types of threats via one solution. At the same time, solutions are available that solve specific security problems: For example, Spycloud helps companies to protect the digital identities of their employees, and the SecurePIM container solution can be used to separate professional and private data on mobile devices, thus significantly increasing the protection of sensitive company data.
- Sensitise employees
A very central success factor in the area of IT security are attentive employees. Employees must be sensitized and trained for the topic. They need to understand the risks involved in accidentally downloading a fake app, carelessly clicking on a malicious link or using public WLAN networks. They must also learn how to detect a cyber attack or a security hole. Only then can the risk of an attack be significantly reduced.