Portable devices such as laptops, tablets, and phones are essential for conducting businesses on the go, however they do open up your business to potential cyber security threats. Here’s how you can enhance the security of your business and protect your business’ data on portable devices from malicious malware, viruses, and cyber-attack:

Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
First and foremost, you must secure your Wi-Fi network. If someone were to gain access to this network, they could easily steal your confidential data or even take control of your device. Make sure to always use a strong password that is unique to each device and not easy to guess. You should also use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) whenever possible on public Wi-Fi networks since they give you an added layer of protection against hackers by encrypting your data as it travels over the internet. Additionally, use firewalls and antivirus software on all your portable devices so that malicious programs cannot be installed without your knowledge or permission.  

Train Your Employees
It is important that all employees are trained in proper cyber security practices for using portable devices both in and out of the office. This includes tips such as never visiting suspicious websites, only downloading trusted applications from verified sources, avoiding public USB ports, frequently backing up their data, locking their devices when not in use, and more. These simple steps will help ensure everyone is aware of the risks associated with using portable devices for work purposes and know how to mitigate them appropriately.            

Prevent Malware Infections
Malware infections can cause serious damage to both personal and business information stored on portable devices, so it is important that measures are taken to prevent them from occurring in the first place. One way to do this is by installing malware removal software onto all portable devices used within the company which will alert you if any potentially malicious files are detected before they become a problem. It is also beneficial to disable pop ups so that employees don’t accidentally click on links or download files from unknown sources which could potentially contain malware or viruses disguised as legitimate content. Finally, make sure everyone knows not to open emails sent from unfamiliar email addresses or click any links contained within them since these can often lead directly into a malware infection on their device instead of providing helpful information like was originally promised.

Implement Multi Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) prompts users during the sign-in process for additional forms of identification, such as a code on their phone, email, authenticator app, or a biometric scan. The second form of authentication increases security as it makes it more difficult for cyber attackers to obtain or duplicate.

Enhancing cyber security on portable devices requires vigilance from both employers and employees alike. By implementing secure Wi-Fi networks, training staff in proper cyber security practices for using portable devices both inside and outside the office, as well as taking steps towards preventing any malware infections from occurring in the first place – businesses can ensure their sensitive data remains safe no matter where it goes. Taking these steps now will save time, money, and stress down the line when it comes time for a potential cyber-attack against your business’s valuable assets.

Bonus Tip: Use Secure Software

Using secure software such as secure umbrella with MFA on your portable device is one of the best ways to protect yourself from being targeted by cybercriminals, as software can be malicious by design, or may contain unintentional security vulnerabilities or gaps in security that allow cybercriminals to compromise your portable device and information.

How do I ensure my software is secure?

• Turn on automatic updates for your device and its software to install new updates as soon as they are available. Updates help to correct security vulnerabilities that could be used by cybercriminals to access your portable device or information. 
• Check that software is made by a reputable company before downloading and installing on your portable device.
• Always download software from an official app store or the company’s official website (if you are using a computer). If you access software through other means, such as pirating, this could put your portable device at risk. For example, the software may not receive security updates, or it could install malware on your portable device as well.
• Avoid software that asks for excessive or suspicious permissions.
• Set your portable device to require approval before software is installed. Parental controls can also be used for this purpose.

If your hardware or software is too old it may no longer be supported and could be unable to receive updates. In these situations, the ACSC and ITeam Consulting recommend upgrading your device or software to a newer version as soon as possible to stay secure.

If you would like further advice on how to protect your business’ data on portable devices, contact ITeam Consulting today.