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Mobile device security: Why protection is critical in the hybrid workforce
- Mobile devices are now essential tools for productivity and communication, but they face different security challenges. Mobile devices have unique vulnerabilities that cyber criminals increasingly exploit and often the least protected corporate devices and offer platforms from which to launch social engineering attacks. Businesses often use a mix of iOS and Android devices, each with its own security protocols and vulnerabilities. Mobile devices frequently connect to public Wi-Fi in coffee shops, airports and other common spaces, making them easy targets for attackers. Mobile threats every user and IT team should be aware of include phishing attacks, malware and spyware, man-in-the-middle attacks (MITM) and unsecured devices and theft.
- Mobile device security is crucial for the hybrid workforce, as more employees have their workdays start and end on a mobile device. Mobile devices have unique security challenges as they connect to various applications and public and Wi-Fi networks. Although app stores like Google Play and Apple's App Store vet applications, malicious apps still manage to slip through, making the devices unsafe.
- The vulnerabilities make mobile devices a rich target for malicious actors. Due to the lack of user awareness and proper protection, mobile devices are often left vulnerable to cyber threats. Mobile devices are frequently left with outdated software as mobile operating system updates are essential to patch known vulnerabilities. When devices have improper security, sensitive information can be accessed by anyone who picks up the device.
- Mobile device management (MDM) solution, like IBM MaaS360, is particularly valuable for businesses. MDM provides critical control and visibility, allowing organizations to enforce security policies, manage devices remotely and wipe data if a device is lost or stolen — ensuring comprehensive security across all mobile devices accessing company resources.
- Individuals and organizations can take proactive measures to secure their mobile devices and protect sensitive data. Regularly updating operating systems, using mobile security software and employing strong authentication are essential steps for protecting mobile devices. Additionally, limiting app permissions and promoting cybersecurity training among employees can significantly reduce risks.
- Mobile devices often hold both personal and professional data. Malware-laden apps can compromise both personal and business information. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and allow attackers to intercept sensitive data, including login credentials and personal information. Phishing remains one of the most effective attack vectors, and mobile users are highly susceptible due to the small screens and simplified user interfaces.
- IBM MaaS360 Mobile Threat Defense add-ons (Professional and Advanced) provide near real-time dashboards to identify risky users and devices, as well as detect and respond to advanced and persistent mobile threats. MaaS360 Unified Endpoint Management, combined with the MaaS360 Mobile Threat Defense Professional add-on, provides IT administrators with a comprehensive, integrated, end-to-end solution that brings together best-in-class endpoint management and mobile threat defense.
- The lack of awareness often translates into a lack of cyber hygiene, leaving devices susceptible to a growing number of cyber threats. Mobile devices face different security challenges than desktops or laptops, making them easy targets for attackers. Android, for instance, has a more fragmented ecosystem, where updates are not universally applied across devices, leaving users exposed. In addition, iOS users may not be aware that jailbreaking their phones disables important security features.
- As more organizations embrace hybrid work models, mobile device security is no longer optional. Without proper safeguards, the productivity benefits of mobile devices are outweighed by the increased security risks they pose. Mobile threats are on the rise, but there are ways to reduce the risk of attacks. The best practices for mobile cybersecurity include regularly updating operating systems, using mobile security software and employing strong authentication to protect mobile devices.
- MaaS360 Mobile Threat Defense provides device management, mobile threat defense, seamless integration with existing cybersecurity stacks and AI-driven security insights to accelerate threat assessment and response. IBM MaaS360 Mobile Threat Defense Advanced represents a significant advance in how organizations adopt and leverage mobile device defense.
- Embracing mobile security for the hybrid workforce is critical. It is imperative to take mobile security seriously as business data is accessed on the go. Individuals, as well as organizations, can take proactive measures to secure their mobile devices and protect sensitive data. As mobile threats are on the rise, it is important to reduce the risk of attacks with the best practices for mobile cybersecurity.
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