The holiday season is looming and, while many workplaces are shutting down, some employees plan to continue working remotely. However, to do this securely workers must take appropriate precautions and they overlook securing mobile devices, according to Ixia.
Ardy Sharifnia, general manager, Ixia, said, “The popularity of mobile devices and their access to data makes mobile security especially important this time of year. Cybercriminals know that employees can get caught up in the rush of the holiday season, making them potentially easy targets. Employees need to ensure their devices are well protected to avoid frustration and compromised data.”
Ixia has identified four ways businesses can secure mobile devices over the holidays:
1. Check mobile networks
All devices connected to the Internet to share data are part of a network. Employees working remotely over the holidays need to ensure that the Wi-Fi network they are connecting to is legitimate and secure. The best way to do this is to check if the network requires a password. A password ensures encryption to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive data and other personal information.
2. Beware of mobile applications
Employees often download applications for work that can open the door for malicious software. Laptops are more at risk due to their ability to install any software without being limited to a specific app store. Updating anti-malware and anti-virus software before the holidays can help detect threats that would otherwise go unnoticed, and help secure devices from harmful downloads and apps.
3. Develop a strong password
Anyone can pick up an unprotected device and obtain sensitive information within seconds, which is why all devices should be protected with a strong password. A good password includes a random combination of letters, numbers, and special characters to make it harder for someone to guess. Remote employees should also look at personalising security settings, to automatically lock the screen of any device after remaining inactive for a minute.
4. Ensure a solid IT foundation
Before the office closes for the year, IT staff should ensure all software, features, and security fixes are up to date. Checking for device updates will help secure devices and identify any holes cyberattackers can use to gain access.
Ardy Sharifnia said, “Employees planning on working from mobile devices over the holidays should consider all the potential risks and take the proper measures to ensure their devices, data, and sensitive information is all protected. Cybercriminals don’t take holidays, so neither should security.”