Mobile Security: Protecting Your Business from a Vulnerable Attack Surface

Posted September 19, 2023

According to industry reports, mobile device compromises have become a significant threat to businesses in recent years. The Verizon Mobile Security Index (MSI) 2022 Report reveals that close to half (45%) of the companies surveyed suffered a security compromise related to mobile devices.

Mobile security is a crucial aspect of cybersecurity for all businesses. Mobile devices are vulnerable to cyber threats, just like any other device connected to the internet. Cybercriminals can use various methods to gain access to sensitive information stored on mobile devices, such as phishing attacks, malware, and social engineering.

This highlights the need for businesses to take mobile security seriously and protect sensitive information from cyber threats. One high-profile example of a mobile device compromise is the Pegasus spyware attack, which targeted journalists, activists, and politicians around the world. The spyware was able to infect mobile devices through a vulnerability in the iMessage app, allowing cybercriminals to access sensitive information stored on the devices. As of March 2023, Pegasus operators were able to remotely install the spyware through a zero-click exploit. While the capabilities of Pegasus may vary over time due to software updates, Pegasus is generally capable of reading text messages, call snooping, collecting passwords, location tracking, accessing the target device’s microphone and camera, and harvesting information from apps.

The Pegasus attack emphasizes the importance of keeping mobile devices up-to-date with the latest security patches and software updates to prevent vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. To protect their organizations from cyber threats, IT workers and executives should consider implementing the following tips for mobile security:

Implement a Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solution

An MDM solution is a software application that allows businesses to manage and secure mobile devices used by employees. An MDM solution can help businesses enforce security policies, such as password requirements, device encryption, and remote wipe capabilities. It can also help businesses monitor and control access to sensitive data.

Require Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA is a security measure that requires users to provide two or more forms of authentication to access a device or application. This can include a password, fingerprint, or facial recognition. MFA can help prevent unauthorized access to mobile devices and sensitive data.

Keep Mobile Devices Up-to-Date

Mobile devices should be updated regularly to ensure they have the latest security patches and software updates. This can help prevent vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit to gain access to sensitive information.

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is a secure connection between a mobile device and a network. It can help protect data transmitted over public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unsecured and vulnerable to cyber threats.

Provide Cybersecurity Training to Employees

Employees should be trained on how to identify and prevent cyber threats, such as phishing attacks and malware. They should also be educated on the importance of mobile security and how to use mobile devices securely.

Organizations of all sizes including manufacturers, local governments, and professional service firms face unique cybersecurity challenges when it comes to mobile security. For example, manufacturers may need to protect intellectual property stored on mobile devices, while local governments may need to protect sensitive citizen information. Professional service firms, such as law firms and accounting firms, may need to also protect client data that inherently ends up on mobile devices as part of a mobile work environment.

To address these challenges, businesses in these industries should consider implementing additional security measures, such as:

Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

DLP is a security measure that helps prevent sensitive data from being lost, stolen, or misused. DLP solutions can help businesses monitor and control access to sensitive data stored on mobile devices.

Mobile Application Management (MAM)

MAM is a software application that allows businesses to manage and secure mobile applications used by employees. MAM solutions can help businesses enforce security policies, such as app whitelisting and blacklisting, and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Compliance Management

Businesses in regulated industries, such as healthcare and finance, must comply with various regulations and standards, such as HIPAA and PCI DSS. Compliance management solutions can help businesses ensure they are meeting these requirements and avoid costly fines and legal action.

Mobile security is a critical component of any business’s cybersecurity strategy. By implementing the tips and solutions discussed in this article, businesses can help prevent data breaches and protect sensitive information from cybercriminals. It is important for businesses to stay informed about the latest cybersecurity trends and laws to combat these threats, which can significantly impact business development. Contact us if you’re ready to secure your mobile devices.

Kevin Willette

Kevin Willette is Partner / CEO of Verus Corp. His focus is ensuring complete customer satisfaction and providing as much or as little support as is needed for the individual client. Kevin knows that plenty of places do IT services, but what sets Verus Corp apart is the local feeling and the commitment to doing things right the first time. He has always wanted to be a business owner because it affords him the opportunity to offer a service that was better than anything clients had seen before. His true goal is to help customers make their businesses better by removing potential IT barriers. Kevin served as chair for Habitat for Humanity during his time at Minnesota State University, Mankato. He has also served on the WatchGuard Advisory Council since 2016. Kevin’s work with Verus Corp has helped them achieve awards as the WatchGuard Partner of the Year and Cisco Select Partner. Kevin graduated from Minnesota State in 2000 with a major in Business Marketing and minors in Business Administration and Music.