In recent years, a growing number of businesses have adopted the hybrid work model. Hybrid work brings a host of benefits, such as better work-life balance, enhanced productivity, and improved employee morale, but it also introduces new challenges, particularly in the area of mobile security. When employees are working from anywhere using a variety of mobile devices, it can be difficult to keep company data and IT systems safe.
Compared to traditional office computers, mobile devices are often more vulnerable to cyberattacks and have fewer security features. Security features can sometimes make mobile devices less user-friendly, so manufacturers often choose to prioritize usability over security. The smaller screens of mobile devices also make it difficult to see and identify malicious links or downloads. Moreover, mobile devices are often used to install and run various apps, making it harder to keep track of which apps are safe and which are not.
To mitigate these risks, businesses with hybrid work setups need to bolster their mobile security by following these tips.
Conduct employee security awareness training
Human error is the cause of 95% of cybersecurity issues, so it's important to invest in employee cybersecurity awareness training. Educate your employees on the most common mobile security threats, such as phishing and malware, and how to identify and defend against them.
You should also teach employees about mobile security best practices, including using strong passwords, enabling multifactor authentication (MFA), and keeping devices up to date with the latest security patches. Moreover, discuss the company's policies related to mobile device usage, such as what data can be stored on mobile devices and how to properly handle sensitive company information.
Adopt a zero trust security model
In a hybrid work environment, employees have the flexibility to access corporate data from anywhere. As such, it becomes imperative to adopt a zero trust security model. This approach operates on the assumption that no one, whether inside or outside the organization, should be trusted by default. Every user and device must be verified before they are given access to company resources.
Here are some of the key components of a zero trust security model:
- Strong authentication: Use strong authentication methods, such as MFA, to verify the identity of users and devices.
- Least privilege access: Provide users access to only the resources they need to do their jobs in order to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
- Microsegmentation: Divide the network into smaller zones, each with its own security controls. This makes it harder for cybercriminals to move around within the network.
- Continuous monitoring: Monitor user activity and device behavior for suspicious activity so you can quickly detect and respond to threats.
Implement a mobile device management solution
A mobile device management (MDM) solution helps businesses control, secure, and manage mobile devices. With an MDM solution, you can:
- Set up rules for device usage, such as requiring a lock screen password, encrypting data, and installing security apps.
- Control which apps can be installed on work devices, reducing the risk of malicious apps being downloaded.
- Collect data from devices, such as battery level, signal strength, and app usage, to help you better understand how devices are used and identify potential security risks.
- Track the location of devices to see where they are and to help you recover lost or stolen devices.
- Remotely wipe the data stored in lost or stolen devices so unauthorized individuals won’t be able to access it.
Work with cybersecurity professionals
Navigating the complex landscape of mobile security can be difficult for businesses that lack the expertise and resources to do it on their own. That's where cybersecurity professionals like NetQuest come in.
When you partner with us, we'll:
- Conduct security audits to identify vulnerabilities in your mobile IT environment and recommend ways to mitigate these.
- Provide 24/7 monitoring to constantly watch for potential threats and take proactive measures to protect your company.
- Implement and manage mobile security solutions that are customized to your organization's needs.
- Respond right away to security incidents to minimize damage.
NetQuest is a trusted provider of cybersecurity and IT services to Baltimore businesses for over 25 years. We're ready to help safeguard your company’s data, mobile devices, and IT systems. Get in touch with us today to get started.
