What is mobile data security?
Mobile data security comprises both strategies and software to protect mobile devices from cybersecurity threats.
Using mobile data security software, businesses can create device-specific backups, encrypt sensitive data, and manage access from a centralized location. The software can also continually monitor for potential threats and alert system administrators before data is compromised.
Keeping mobile devices defended from cyber criminals should be a high priority for any business, especially as more implement hybrid work policies and bring your own device (BYOD) programs to their teams. Mobile devices are open to virtual and physical threats, making effective mobile data security essential.
Types of mobile data security
As mobile tools contain a range of applications and files, the data security they need varies from device to device. For most organizations, successful mobile data security uses:
- Virtual private networks (VPNs). When using a public network, it’s best to connect to a VPN. They enable people to expand their private networks across public ones while hiding IP addresses and maintaining data privacy on unsecured networks.
- Antivirus and antispam software. Email phishing is one of the most common ways that cyber criminals access information. Putting software into place that identifies malware or suspicious links in emails can prevent a threat from materializing.
- Endpoint protection. Different devices across an organization may connect to a network at different endpoints. This mobile data security includes encryption and security management at all access points to verify user information and prevent data loss.
- Secure gateways. Gateways are secured network connections that enforce the same level of security over multiple devices. They keep unwanted traffic off the company’s internal networks, thus removing the possibility of unauthorized use of critical information.
Basic elements of mobile data security
The remote possibilities of mobile devices are one of their biggest benefits, but that also makes them susceptible to attack. That’s why mobile data security must incorporate protection across:
- Applications. Unless it’s downloaded from a verifiable source, malware can easily be installed on a mobile device through a compromised application. Data security software should be able to detect this through download blockers or centralized admin control before an affected app is installed.
- Networks. Anyone with access to a network has the opportunity to steal valuable data. Mobile security systems must always protect against network intruders at a company-wide level.
- Operating systems. Android and iOS systems can experience vulnerabilities that cyber criminals may exploit. Businesses need to review all devices to certify that operating systems are the most current versions with up-to-date bug patches.
Benefits of mobile data security
The goal of mobile data security is to protect important data on mobile devices. Beyond this, strategic security measures are beneficial for:
- Detecting non-compliant devices. Enrolling devices into a mobile data security platform can quickly flag anything that doesn’t meet established security standards. This could be as simple as notifying administrators that a device needs a software update or as imperative as addressing high-level threat detection.
- Centralizing device management. When a company has a large number of devices under its control, it becomes more difficult to manage each one properly. Using mobile data security software means that businesses can catalog and monitor devices within one software tool, giving admins remote management capabilities.
- Increasing IT team efficiency. Many data security tools have automated features that reduce the human effort required of IT administrators. Looking for threats is a time-intensive process, so implementing security software to do this in the background makes teams more efficient and productive.
Best practices for mobile data security
Taking preventative steps to protect mobile data is always the best strategy, with detection software supporting these systems should a threat arise. Some of the best practices to consider when creating mobile data security plans are:
- Outlining clear policies and procedures. Reducing the risk of cyber threats begins internally with rules that apply to all employees. These policies should cover all elements of data security, including practices for removing access when an employee leaves and establishing clear login requirements.
- Training employees on data security. Keeping team members updated on the latest cyber threats and how to recognize them is an important step in preventing data breaches through phishing.
- Requiring strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Adding security layers benefits entire organizations. Whether it’s terminating passwords after a set period of time or making users take multiple steps to logg into software, businesses should prioritize these policies when rolling out new mobile data security practices.
- Encrypting device data outside internal networks. Many mobile devices now have the ability to encrypt data when not connected to a VPN. Only authorized users can see information, which keeps it safe if the device is lost or stolen.
Monitor for potential threats to your company’s most important information with attack surface management software.
Holly Landis
Holly Landis is a freelance writer for G2. She also specializes in being a digital marketing consultant, focusing in on-page SEO, copy, and content writing. She works with SMEs and creative businesses that want to be more intentional with their digital strategies and grow organically on channels they own. As a Brit now living in the USA, you'll usually find her drinking copious amounts of tea in her cherished Anne Boleyn mug while watching endless reruns of Parks and Rec.
