Mobile Security Decision-Makers Report BYOD Threats Have Infiltrated Their Organizations

Despite the risk of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) threats, a new study reveals that fewer than half organizations have implements mobile security.

  • Nov 20, 2012

A new mobile security study finds that the vast majority of organizations that allow employees to BYOD are experiencing high rates of mobile threats, including lost or stolen devices, malware and compromised company data. Conducted by Webroot, a leader in delivering Internet security as a service, the study exposes that the popular trend of allowing employees to use their smartphones and tablets at work is causing a significant drain on IT resources while at the same time putting corporate data at risk.

The study, which focused on mobile security decision-makers in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, found an overwhelming 82 percent of respondents believe that mobile devices create a high security risk within the corporate environment. Results show that mobile security is a high priority for half of the companies supporting BYOD, equating to increased help desk support and consumption of valuable IT resources. In addition, 45 percent reported lost or stolen devices in the past year and 24 percent experienced mobile malware infections, crippling productivity and potentially compromising company and customer data.

However, larger organizations, those with 500 or more employees, are at even higher risk. According to the study, 67 percent had dealt with lost or stolen mobile devices and 32 percent had experienced mobile malware infections, creating widespread concern about the business impact of employee-owned devices within the enterprise.

Webroot advises that companies take the following steps to reduce the risks associated with BYOD:

1. Establish device control policies: Create a policy that governs how your corporate IT staff can gain control over a personal device while maintaining your network security. Include information about how to keep personal information private (e.g., via a mobile device backup strategy such as containerization that doesn't touch personal data) and define corporate ownership over data and applications.

2. Enforce device-level security: Both corporate-owned and personal devices should have secure passwords and screen locks; document this requirement in your mobile device policies. In addition, require that personal and corporate mobile devices maintain up-to-date, corporate-approved (and preferably corporate-managed) security software installed to guard against malware and other security risks.

3. Develop and deliver mobile workforce security training: Security training will keep your mobile workforce productive and prepared to be the first line of defense against malware and other security threats to their mobile devices. Spell out your corporate policies and include a participant sign-off stating that they understand and will abide by the policies.

4. Let your business drive mobile device security policies and training: Business requirements and culture drive the policies, training and other upfront work you do to support your mobile workforce security needs.

Featured

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

  • Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services

    Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.