Mobile phones have become an indispensable tool in all our lives. Ensuring their security and protecting sensitive information becomes paramount, especially when you have all your work-related apps and data synced.
Every 39 seconds, a new assault occurs on the internet, and 24,000 malicious mobile apps are typically blocked every day. Though these stats sound threatening, they signify the criticality of developing effective strategies to protect our devices against potential data breaches, viruses, and unauthorised access.
Here are 8 ways to secure work-related data that’s on your phone:
- The key: Passwords
Securing your device using locks such as PINs, passwords, or biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition) is the first step you can take to keep your data protected. As a result of weak passwords, 30% of internet users have had their data compromised. To avoid this, try using complex combinations of numbers, letters, and symbols instead of simple passcodes that are easy to guess. To keep a high level of security, frequently change your device lock and never share it with anyone.
- Data encryption
To prevent unauthorised access to your work-related data, enable device encryption. By using encryption, you can make sure that even if your device is stolen, the data will be inaccessible without the encryption key. The majority of contemporary smartphones come with built-in encryption capabilities that can be simply enabled in the devices’ settings.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN)
Use a trustworthy VPN service for connecting to workplace networks or accessing any confidential data. Your internet traffic is encrypted via a VPN, creating a private and secure connection. While using open Wi-Fi networks or distant connections, it guards against eavesdropping and protects your data.
- Implement two-factor authentication (2FA)
Enable two-factor authentication for your work-related accounts and applications. 2FA offers an additional layer of security against unauthorised access by demanding a second form of verification, such as a special code texted to your device. Even if your password is compromised, it dramatically lowers the chance of attackers accessing your work-related information.
- Stay alert on phishing scams
With an estimated 3.4 billion spam emails generated daily, phishing is the most prevalent type of cybercrime. It is crucial to be proactive while answering calls, messages, and emails.
Avoid downloading attachments from unidentified sources or clicking on dubious links. Before disclosing any private information, confirm the veracity of requests by getting in touch with the purported sender via other channels.
- Install reliable security apps
Invest in a reliable mobile security app. This will provide cutting-edge functions including virus detection, safe browsing, and remote device tracking and wiping. Find a reliable security program that fits the needs of your company, do your research on it, and make sure it’s updated frequently. Implementing this one step could easily help you in elevating your mobile-protection process.
- Regularly update software and apps
Update the operating system and programs, and implement security updates on your phone frequently. Manufacturers and app developers deliver updates to address security concerns and patch vulnerabilities. If you want to make sure you have the most recent defence against new threats, set your device to automatically install updates or manually check for updates regularly.
- Secure work-related data storage
Don’t keep all of your important work-related data on your mobile device. Instead, make use of company-approved file-sharing sites or secure cloud storage services. Strong security features, such as encryption, access controls, and data backups, are frequently provided by cloud storage companies. This way, your work-related data is kept secure and available even if your device is lost or compromised.
In light of the ongoing targeting of mobile devices by hackers, it is crucial to elevate the importance of phone security and mobile security risks. Mobile devices are just as susceptible, if not more, to potential threats as PCs and other computer hardware are. Among the hazards they face are malware, social engineering, cyberattacks, network attacks, and so on.
Regardless of whether you hold responsibility for an organisation’s security or seek to protect your personal technology, it is essential to adopt a proactive approach. Begin by using strong passwords and online discipline, then progress to implementing technical measures aimed at reducing risks.
Learn about ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager, a comprehensive mobile device management solution designed to empower your enterprise workforce with the power of mobility, by enhancing employee productivity without compromising on corporate security.