The Hidden Risks of BYOD
Over the past few years, the concept of 'Bring Your Own Device' (BYOD) has become increasingly popular.
Especially through the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses were trying to find ways to get as many laptops/desktops as possible in a short space of time. Leading, in many cases, to a shortage of hardware available to order. As this became increasingly difficult businesses turned to an option that before then was reserved for select employees or in select industries, Bring Your Own Device. This allowed businesses to keep their employees working from home using technology they already had available to them. From this, businesses stance towards ‘Bring Your Own Device’ (BYOD) have shifted. In many cases, it can decrease hardware costs for the business by allowing employees to use their own devices. Many employees even cherish the flexibility and comfort of using their personal laptops, tablets, or smartphones for professional tasks. Whilst others may prefer to keep a clean separation between Work & Personal.
However, as BYOD flexibility increases within businesses, it also brings a host of cyber security challenges that should not be ignored. The convergence of personal and professional data on a single device creates an appealing combination for cyber criminals.
Why is BYOD a Danger to your Cyber Security?
The inherent danger behind BYOD policies lies in the fundamental lack of control that a business has over the security measures employed on employees' personal devices. Unlike company-provided equipment, which if your business is practising a comprehensive cyber security solution can include robust security tools and protocols, personal devices may lack the right cyber security solutions (if any at all), enforcement of strong passwords, the latest security patches and much more.
This lack of adequate security on personal devices creates an appealing environment for cyber criminals, as they become an easy target for cyber threats such as malware, phishing attacks, and data theft. The convenience of using devices on the go, such as; smartphones, tablets, and laptops, means they are frequently connected to insecure (or potentially fraudulent https://www.twenty-four.it/insights/public-wi-fi/) public Wi-Fi networks, further exposing them to potential cyber risk that could compromise a company’s entire network. To fight off these threats, businesses must proactively implement comprehensive security policies tailored to the BYOD culture.
The first step is to establish a clear, safe, and enforceable BYOD policy that outlines acceptable use and security requirements for personal devices. This policy should include mandating the installation of business security software, patch management, remote management, domain linking, separate personal and business accounts, regular updates, and the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) when accessing company data.
Additionally, businesses should consider employing mobile device management (MDM) and/or mobile application management (MAM) solutions. These allow for the remote management of devices, ensuring that they comply with company security standards, enable remote wiping of company accounts and/or data in case of loss or theft, and can whitelist authorised application downloads and remotely check, manage, and authorise application installation.
Education is Key
These are just a few of the essential things that businesses should be considering when it comes to using personal devices in the workplace. However, policies are just the start. Education is critical in the fight against cyber threats. Employees must be made aware of the latest Cyber Security threats, and the risks associated with ‘Bring Your Own Device’ and trained on best practices for maintaining the highest levels of security of their devices. This includes recognising phishing attempts, understanding the importance of strong passwords and MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication), and avoiding the use of potentially unsecured networks for work-related activities.
A strong culture of cyber security awareness is the first line of defence against the threats posed by BYOD policies.
How can TwentyFour help your business?
While BYOD policies offer flexibility and potential productivity gains within your business, they can also introduce significant cyber security risks. Businesses must balance the benefits of BYOD with comprehensive security tools and solutions. By implementing comprehensive cyber security solutions and policies, employing technology solutions, and fostering an educated environment of security awareness, businesses can mitigate the risks and safeguard their valuable data against the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape.
TwentyFour helps businesses throughout the UK, both with Cyber Security and IT Solutions. By working with your business to understand your processes and how you operate, including BYOD policies, we can help you put the processes and solutions in place to protect your business data. Find out if your business adheres to our recommended minimum Cyber Defence level by taking our FREE Cyber Security Health Check.
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