How can you conduct a mobile security audit to protect your company's information?

2 Inventory your assets

The next step is to inventory your assets, which means collecting and documenting information about your mobile devices, apps, data, and users. You need to know how many devices you have, what types and models they are, what operating systems and versions they run, what apps they have installed, what data they store and access, and who owns and uses them. You also need to know how they are configured, managed, and secured, and what permissions and policies they have. You can use tools like enterprise mobility management (EMM) software to automate and streamline this process.

3 Analyze your risks

After you have a complete inventory of your assets, you need to analyze the risks they face. You need to identify the threats and vulnerabilities that could compromise your mobile security, such as lost or stolen devices, phishing or malware attacks, unsecured Wi-Fi networks, outdated software, weak passwords, or rogue apps. You also need to evaluate the impact and likelihood of each risk, and rank them according to their severity and urgency. You can use frameworks like NIST or ISO to guide your risk analysis.

4 Implement your controls

Once you have a clear picture of your risks, you need to implement the controls that will mitigate them. You need to apply the best practices and standards for mobile security, such as encrypting your data, enforcing strong passwords, updating your software, installing antivirus and firewall software, restricting app downloads, disabling unnecessary features, and backing up your data. You also need to use EMM software to monitor, manage, and secure your devices remotely, and to enforce policies and permissions that limit access and usage.

5 Educate your users

The final step of your mobile security audit is to educate your users, who are often the weakest link in your mobile security chain. You need to train your employees on how to use their devices safely and responsibly, and how to avoid common pitfalls and mistakes that could expose your data. You also need to inform them of your mobile security policies and expectations, and how to report and respond to incidents. You can use EMM software to send alerts and reminders, and to test and evaluate your users' knowledge and behavior.

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?