Keeping valuable business data safe from theft is vital, especially as an increasing number of mobile technologies are incorporated into a small business’ daily routine.
SMBs have firmly embraced the mobility revolution and use multiple mobile devices regularly for tasks such as checking emails or data, but haven’t properly considered the security risks involved.
With multiple devices and ever-evolving technology comes new ways of phishing, scams, and malicious software that require protection beyond basic anti-virus and internet security.
In response to these evolving threats, mobile and internet security specialists AVG have created ‘The Common Sense Guide To Working on the Move’ based on knowledge from security professionals worldwide. The report aims to help businesses improve their awareness of security when it comes to using mobile devices and operating online to prevent data theft or loss.
AVG security advisor Michael Mckinnon warns cyber criminals are targeting small businesses due to their less sophisticated security systems.
“Smaller organisations tend to have less sophistication and structure to their security mechanisms. Everything is of value to the crooks – from product roadmaps and pricing data to corporate bank account information and customer databases,” said Mckinnon.
AVG has the following eight tips to assist SMBs to keep their data safe:
- Make sure you use strong passwords on your laptops and mobile devices containing combinations of words and numbers to help prevent unauthorised access.
- Turn off Bluetooth in public places to avoid unauthorised access to your mobile device through ‘Bluesnarfing,’ or sending you unsolicited messages known as ‘Bluejacking.’
- Be cautious when using ‘free’ Wi-Fi such as internet hotspots as they don’t guarantee secure access.
- Never use public computers for online banking, purchases, or anything that might that involves personally identifiable information.
- Be cautious and alert to those who might be able to see your screen when using mobile devices such as iPads, smartphones and laptops in public places.
- Be aware of what items you are carrying with you, and make sure you don’t accidentally leave or lose any documents, disks, or USBs while travelling.
- Keep note of your mobile operator’s emergency number so in the event of losing your phone you can organised to have it immobilised.
- Have filters and other protection barriers in place when using mobile devices that are connected to the internet.
