Mobile devices, tablets, smartphones, laptops and even wearable technology are now such an integral part of daily life that it comes as no surprise that an increasing number of employees are bringing their devices into the workplace. Subsequently, a number of businesses are implementing bring your own device (BYOD) initiatives to encourage members of staff to work more flexibly and, more often than not, more productively.

Using these mobile devices as work tools can enhance a business’s existing suite of IT facilities; with an increasing amount of staff working remotely, it makes sense that mobile devices are being integrated into the working environment. In addition, BYOD into the workplace can potentially reduce a business’s IT costs and will typically improve client services.

However, while implementing BYOD initiatives can be an incredibly worthwhile, cost-effective and useful resource, there are certain drawbacks which could turn BYOD into a threat for businesses. So, we ask: does BYOD bring potential stumbling blocks for businesses?

The Trouble With BYOD

Mobile and flexible working through BYOD can be a valuable asset to businesses, however it can also cause some difficulties. When in the work environment, an employee’s devices must be treated like any other IT hardware when it comes to security. It’s also worth bearing in mind that increased access to any system via multiple devices can present security risks, and typical concerns include:

• By using BYOD initiatives, both an employee’s business and personal information is stored on the same device. With this, employers must consider where the balance sits between strict corporate security protocol and the protection of an individual’s personal data, easily captured through e-commerce sites and social media channels.

• Employers must consider the safety of devices, as mobile devices are a particularly attractive target for thieves. If a device were to be stolen, or even lost or misplaced, large volumes of sensitive, business data could end up in the wrong hands.

• Mobile devices and the data stored on them can be easily be subject to interference from personal applications or programmes installed on the device. Many of these applications have the ability to spread malware, which in turn could encrypt data and cause damage or loss of use to the device.

• Many mobile devices will be automatically connect to the nearest available network, which leaves personal devices open and vulnerable to attacks from unsecure, untrusted sources. Again, this leaves both the device and its data at risk.

• On mobile devices, phishing and spamming scams are difficult to prevent, and even more difficult to clear once they have gained access to a device. As unsolicited communication through email and text messaging is on the rise, this is an increasingly concerning threat for both businesses and device owners.

Undoubtedly, BYOD can present some serious security threats and concerns. However, with the appropriate safeguards in place BYOD can enable a business to expand, operate more efficiently and increasing client satisfaction. While BYOD can help can improve flexible and mobile working, robust security measures must be in place to ensure that a business’ network is not under threat from malware or loss of data.

Phil Sawyer

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Tags: Future Ready, Mobility, Technology