Smartphones have transformed the way we do business

Whether its taking orders on the go, replying to clients emails whilst commuting to the office or answering business VoIP calls from anywhere in the world as if you was at your desk - a huge amount of work that employees used to do at their desks can now be done on our smartphones.

However, as with all good things, there can be downsides too.

Our smartphones hold huge amounts of sensitive data, from customer records and emails, to accounting details and apps, its really important that we treat the security of these devices the same as we would a business laptop or computer.

Here are our top 5 tips to get you started:

1. Switch on PIN, Passcode or Finger Print Protection.
   This will serve as the first line of defence should someone get a hold of your smartphone. It means that without your unique PIN, Passcode or Fingerprint nobody will be able to get into your device and access the sensitive data stored within it.
    
2. Turn on "Find my iPhone / Device" so it can be located or remotely wiped.
   Enabling your smartphones remote location feature will enable you to track the location of your device online if it gets lost or stolen. Most importantly, it will enable you to remotely wipe all of the sensitive data from your device if it cannot be retrieved.
    
3. Make sure you regularly check for device and app updates. Use "Automatic Update" option if available.
   Installing the latest updates on your smartphone is critically important, this will keep you protected from security vulnerabilities that get discovered and keep your device running smoothly.
    
4. When working on sensitive data, don't connect to public WiFi. Use 3G or 4G or a trusted VPN service instead.
   Public WiFi networks are often unmanaged and unmaintained, criminal hackers can take advantage of this and install malicious software onto the routers that can monitor and intercept your smartphones communications data. Likewise, anyone else on the same "Open" WiFi network as you can see your data. Using 3G or 4G protects you from this kind of snooping - alternatively see our post on VPN's to find out how a trusted VPN can keep you safe when on the move.
    
5. When the device manufacturer stops producing updated its time to upgrade to a newer device.
   Once your smartphones manufacturer stops releasing updates and security patches for your device its time to upgrade. Most smartphones are supported by the manufacturer for at least 2 years from release, with Apple's iPhone's taking the crown offering a whopping 5 years of support and security updates.

What next?

Implementing these 5 simple steps will make a huge difference to the security of your business smartphones, and help you stay safe online.

If you would like some further guidance on this or any of the other topics covered on our blog then feel free to contact one of our friendly small business advisors on: 01684 600 001 or hello@cybersteps.co.uk