How can you monitor and audit BYOD devices to meet your security standards?

1 Define BYOD policies

The first step to monitor and audit BYOD devices is to establish clear and comprehensive policies that outline the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of both the organization and the employees. These policies should cover topics such as device eligibility, security requirements, acceptable use, data ownership, privacy, and compliance. You should communicate these policies to your employees and obtain their consent before allowing them to use their own devices for work.

2 Implement MDM and MAM solutions

MDM, or mobile device management, and MAM, or mobile application management, are software solutions that enable you to remotely control, configure, and secure BYOD devices. With MDM, you can enforce security settings, such as encryption, password, and firewall, on the devices, as well as wipe or lock them in case of loss or theft. With MAM, you can manage the applications that are installed and used on the devices, as well as restrict the access and sharing of sensitive data.

3 Monitor device activity and performance

To ensure that BYOD devices are compliant with your security standards and policies, you need to monitor their activity and performance regularly. You can use tools such as network analyzers, log analyzers, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems to collect and analyze data from the devices, such as network traffic, application usage, device status, and security events. You can also set up alerts and notifications to inform you of any suspicious or abnormal behavior on the devices.

4 Conduct periodic audits and reviews

Monitoring BYOD devices is not enough; you also need to conduct periodic audits and reviews to verify their security and compliance. You can use tools such as vulnerability scanners, penetration testers, and compliance checkers to assess the security posture and compliance level of the devices. You can also perform manual checks and interviews with the employees to validate their adherence to the policies and procedures. You should document the results and findings of the audits and reviews and take corrective actions if needed.

5 Provide training and awareness

Finally, you need to provide training and awareness to your employees on how to use their own devices securely and responsibly. You should educate them on the best practices and guidelines for BYOD security, such as using strong passwords, updating software, avoiding public Wi-Fi, and reporting incidents. You should also make them aware of the risks and consequences of BYOD security breaches, such as data loss, reputation damage, and legal liability. You should encourage them to ask questions and seek help if they have any doubts or issues.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?