Protect your business from mobile data theft
Have a think about the level of risk your business would face if an employee lost a smartphone or tablet with company details on it – would your business be in trouble?
In 2020 it is vital that mobile security is at the top of your company’s worry list.
In recent years it has become more and more common for hackers to access corporate data from smartphones, which has made it even harder for businesses to protect sensitive information.
Learn how you can protect your business from mobile data theft in our short guide.
Create an inventory
If your business provides staff with devices like mobile phones and iPads, make sure that you are keeping track of these by creating an inventory. Keep track of the makes, models, serial numbers and International Mobile Equipment Identifier (IMEI) numbers.
Password Protection
It is well known that bad password management can lead to data security breaches. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has recommended #ThinkRandom for a few years and is still promoting this method of password creation. Instead of creating extremely long and complex passwords, the NCSC’s #ThinkRandom recommends that, when setting up a password, users choose three random words.
As well as smart password protection, users should also set their devices to lock after a short period of inactivity.
Protecting your devices
This is a simple step that every business should invest time into. It is very easy to add security features on to Apple devices as users can enable “Find My iPhone” or “Find My iPad” in iCloud for free. These features can help users to locate a missing device. Ensuring that facial recognition and password protection are in place is just another way to protect Apple devices from infiltration.
If your business uses Android devices, Android Device Manager can be used to locate devices and the system also allows users to lock the device and erase capabilities remotely.
You will also find a range of security software options out there that will support your business in protecting its mobile devices.
What should I do if a device is lost or stolen?
Has a device that belongs to your business been stolen, and you are wondering where to begin? We give advice on what your business should do next below.
Make use of those security features
If your devices do have security features, make sure that you enable them. Start by using a location feature like “Find My iPhone” to locate the device – if unsuccessful, enable remote lock.
If you have a Dropbox or Gmail account you can also check the most recent IP address used to access the account, which will help the police to track the device down.
Report your device as missing
Always report the incident. Start by contacting the service provider, as they will be able to lock the account which will stop any unauthorised usage.
Some mobile phone companies can also add lost or stolen devices to a global database of blacklisted phones. This stops an unauthorised user from activating it.
It is also advised that you report the device as stolen or lost to the police, with details of where the device was last seen as they could help your business to retrieve it.
What else can I do to protect my business?
- If sensitive data stored on a device that is at risk, it is vital that you wipe it.
- Make sure that the device is reset to its factory-installed settings.
- If any passwords are stored on the phone, they should be changed as soon as possible.
Stay safe with Cyber Essentials
It is vital that your business has a cyber security strategy in place. By implementing the key controls that Cyber Essentials Online recommends, you can protect your business from 80% of common cyber attacks.
Defend your business by getting Cyber Essentials certification.