Allowing employees to use their own devices for business purposes is convenient for them and saves you money. However, before you take the plunge and approve a BYOD policy for your office, be sure you have the systems in place to protects your valuable digital assets.
When employees connect to your internal network using their devices, it creates the potential for data to become lost, shared, stolen, or simply viewed by people who are not authorized. These problems can be avoided with cell phone security systems, but they have to be in place as soon as your BYOD policy is instituted.
Cell Phone Security Systems for BYOD Policies
Some of the mobile device management systems you might use include:
- Good policy - Start with a written policy that outlines the allowed and forbidden use of data, apps, websites, and anything else you want to regulate. Even if you implement high-tech solutions, employees need to know what is and is not expected of them when it comes to using their personal devices for business.
- Security software - After you have created the protocols for passwords, data encryption, and usage, enforce them with a software solution that allows you to monitor activity or receive alerts when a protocol has not been followed.
- Centralized solutions - Use a mobile device management solution that allows you to monitor all devices from a single dashboard. This can be challenging when your employees are using personal smart phones, tablets, and laptops with different operating systems, so make sure you know exactly what you need before you choose a provider.
- Back-up plans - What will you do if a security protocol is breached? What if a device is temporarily lost? Will you remotely delete all its data even though some of it is personal and belongs to the employee? Address these questions before a problem arises so that you and your employees are on the same page about the steps that will be taken.
Like any decision to adopt new software or systems, consider all of the possibilities before you make choices. In addition to data security, you should also consider privacy, liability, and employee satisfaction issues as you develop your BYOD policy.
MelroseMAC is here to help you find the right software solutions for your BYOD policy. We'll work with you to determine your specific requirements and make recommendations that will meet the individual needs of your business. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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