Fixing device security issues in 2021

In the world of a distributed workforce, there are no shortcuts to security. Enterprise mobile challenges are greater than ever, and the abrupt change to working from home has required companies to make these transitions quickly.

To add more fire to the fuel, the rapid adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) brings a whole new set of problems, such as IoT devices having unsecured endpoints that provides hackers with a multitude of opportunities. Add to that the increasing trend of accessing global systems using VPNs, as well as malware on the rise due to poor user knowledge and lack of employee training. A recent Verizon mobile security report noted that around 40% of the participants said that their companies saw mobile device security as one of the most worrisome threats, given how easy it is to achieve a data breach. Here's how to help minimize device security issues.

Dual LANs for your remote workplace
This is a simple process and relatively inexpensive and tends to reduce the exposure you may have to malware from consumer devices. If you're working from home, using IoT devices, laptops and phones, and tend to visit high-risk sites, dual LANs may be appropriate. As part of the process, corporate-only LAN is a must for your devices. This means that you can dedicate a phone and laptop solely for work purposes.

Revisiting BYOD
When many organizations moved to BYOD, they did so under a wide range of circumstances. CNBC notes that, given the fact that 90% of business communications are conducted on a personal phone, it is time to limit the unknown variables. This means BYOD requires reconsideration. In conjunction with taking another look at the benefits of dual-LAN, restricting BYOD use can limit the risks of an employee accessing high-risk websites, failing to institute proper firewall security or apply patches, or use unsecured networks. To achieve maximum benefit from an enterprise-only LAN, you are required to make robust decisions, which means a reconsideration of all BYOD policies.

Evaluating mobile device management
As opposed to BYOD, there isn't much to revisit in mobile device management (MDM). It comes down to a company-wide decision about which provider to choose and the right time to revisit or upgrade configuration options. Mobile devices have vast data-control mechanisms and MDM in 2021 may lead to different decisions and results. Organizations can use a higher-level MDM solution today with competitive costs. Sift through the pros and cons of upgrading, review the products available, and make an informed decision about whether your company can afford to supply work devices (and whether you can afford NOT to).

Managing user pushback
One of the biggest problems when it comes to maintaining device security is user pushback. Company security and IT executives have not done a good job at selling the benefits of adhering to security roles.implementing a zero trust policy to prevent unauthorized access can mean a period of adjustment as both employees and vendors become accustomed to tighter security restrictions, like IoT device configuration or two-factor authentication. You can help streamline matters by using single login protocols and holding employee training sessions. 

Improving mobile and offsite device security is a must as the hybrid workplace becomes the norm. Perle can help ensure your physical onsite infrastructure is capable of supporting high levels of cybersecurity while you work on the habits of your distributed workforce. Read our customer success stories to learn more.