Don’t make BYOD into a disaster

Working from home on mobile devices such as laptops could introduce new security concerns when returning to the office after lockdown - so now is the time to ensure all software and network security is up to date.

Known as BYOD, or Bring Your Own Device, laptops and other mobile devices will have been brought home to ensure staff were able to continue to work safely. What many people may not realise, is that a device may be secured whilst it is hooked up to a workplace network and therefore it is much less likely to be targeted by hackers or ransomware. As soon as those devices leave the safety of the work network, they are only as secure as a home internet connection or WiFi. Even locked connections are much less secure than what you might have set up at work.

As BYOD grows in popularity in the workplace, it is important that both employers and employees understand how they can protect themselves from cybercrime. As we look to return to work, and perhaps a more flexible working structure from home and in the office, now is the most important time to make sure any security certificates are up to date, as well as any training to ensure staff are not caught unaware.

It’s also a good idea to ensure any equipment is:

• Password protected
• Has antivirus installed
• Updated and uses secure online connections
• Encrypted, tracked & can be remotely wiped if lost
• That organisation data is not being auto-synced to the employee’s own cloud storage
• That organisation data is removed when the device is disposed with

Without any of the above in place, it’s easy to see why some know BYOD as another name - Bring Your Own Disaster!

It’s well worth investing in mobile device management software which can help enforce the use of passwords, encryption and push security updates. It can also work to block certain apps, separate your data from other employees and even remove data if the device is lost.

It is also recommended that organisations review their data policies to ensure any mobile device brought into the workplace is appropriately covered by legislation and / or insurance. In addition, businesses should make sure any anti-virus software is up to date and where possible a VPN should be used for an additional layer of protection.

If you find yourself a victim of cyberattack, or you would like some advice relating to security at work, contact Downs Solicitors to see how we can help.