What businesses should know about mobile security threats

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With the rise of remote work, more employees are using mobile devices to access company data than ever before. While mobile devices offer many advantages, they also come with a number of risks. Businesses need to be aware of these risks in order to protect their data and their employees. By understanding the specific mobile security threats posed, businesses can mitigate them and allow their employees to continue to use mobile devices for work purposes. 

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What are mobile security threats?

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Mobile security threats are any type of threat that can target a mobile device. This can include malware, viruses, phishing attacks, and more. Mobile devices are especially vulnerable to these types of threats because they are often used for work purposes and store a lot of sensitive data. Mobile security threats specifically target threats that are mostly found in mobile devices. This includes mobile vulnerabilities like unsecure mobile apps, weak mobile operating systems, and unsafe mobile networks 

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Examples of mobile security threats:

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There are numerous mobile security threats that businesses should be aware of. Some of the most common mobile security threats include:

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• Unsecured Wi-fi: Unsecured Wi-fi is one of the largest mobile security threats to organizations.  When employees connect to unsecured Wi-fi networks, they leave the company’s data vulnerable to attack. Hackers use public wi-fi that's unsecured to gain company data and extort companies.
• Stolen/lost mobile device: A lost or stolen mobile device puts both the individual and company at risk. Some hackers target executive personnel at companies and target their mobile devices since they are more valuable. It's vital to use passwords and encryption to protect both company data and personal data. 
• Malicious mobile apps: Malicious mobile apps  are mobile applications that have been infected with malware. These apps can be found in official app stores and third-party app stores. Once downloaded, the malware can gain access to a mobile device and the data stored on it. 

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How can you prevent mobile security threats?

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There are several actionable steps you can take to mitigate and prevent mobile security threats in your business. The most effective methods include:

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• Auditing your mobile cybersecurity: The first step in dealing with mobile security threats is identifying them.  You can do this by conducting a mobile security audit. You can work with an IT provider to help analyze and identify the different mobile security risks you have in your business. This will help you map out an action plan and deal with the posed risks to mobile devices in your business.
• Educating employees: One of the best ways to prevent mobile security threats is by educating your employees. Employees should be aware of the different mobile security risks and how to avoid them. They should know that accessing company files, networks and data from their mobile devices can put the company at risk. Creating best practices and empowering your employees is a great first line of defense against mobile security threats.
• Implementing mobile security policies: To protect your company from mobile security threats, you need to have mobile security policies in place. These policies should address the different mobile security risks and how to mitigate them. Mobile security policies should include what data can be accessed from mobile devices, where this can be accessed, and what apps should be avoided. By having mobile security policies in place, you can reduce the chances of mobile security threats occurring in your business.

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To learn more about how you can prevent mobile security threats, contact us here.

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