Five Key Steps to Enhance Your Mobile Device Security in 2024

As companies are moving toward hybrid and remote workplace plans, mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets have become an integral part of corporate employees' lives.?

Earlier, employees’ internet browsing activity was limited to desktops and laptops. But in recent years, the situation has changed; employees feel more convenient using mobile devices, as it allows them to browse the internet and work even while travelling.?

However, this transformational working environment comes with a huge disadvantage, as mobile devices are more vulnerable to physical and virtual attacks, which often puts companies' and employees' data at risk.?

In a report by Kaspersky, it was observed that in 2023 the number of attacks on mobile devices reached almost 33.8 million attacks, marking a 50% increase from the previous year's figures. Even numerous tech thought leaders have predicted that if robust security strategies are not formed, the attacks might increase by 14% every year.

Therefore, as a working professional with a smartphone and tablet, you are a high-value target for cybercriminals. However, to safeguard your data, we bring you five tips that will boost the security of your smartphone and tablets.?

1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

If you are unsure about the security status of the network you are connected to, use VPN clients to safeguard your data. VPN is known for creating a secure private connection to shield your browsing activity on public wifi from snooping eyes. Further, it improves remote access facilities by providing a secured connection to company resources to protect the data that is being transmitted over public networks using encryption.

2. Implementing Strong Passwords/Biometrics

Locking your mobile devices with a facial ID, a fingerprint, a pattern, or a pin is your most basic form of protection, especially in the event of loss or theft. To take it a step further, use extremely complex passwords in other apps; however, this might also entice you to store them, such as a browser does, using the 'password manager’ feature. You and your administrators should avoid this feature since it only increases the chances of your password getting spoofed. Therefore, in case you forget your password, try to change it or opt for the one-time password (OTP) option; with this method, you can easily safeguard your valuable data.

3. Encrypt your Device

Nowadays, most mobile devices are bundled with a built-in encryption feature. In case of theft, encryption prevents hackers from gaining unauthorized access to encrypted files. However, after encrypting all your files, you need to remember the encryption password; it is basically a form of multi-factor authentication (MFA) that requires you to punch in the password every time you try to open files.?

4. Use Official App Stores for Your Apps

A recent study found that the average smartphone user has about 80 apps installed, yet over 60% are left untouched after the first login. This is alarming, as unused apps often gather sensitive data. While Google Play and 苹果 's App Store offer some protection, malicious apps still slip through, especially those downloaded outside official stores. Therefore, it is always advisable to review descriptions and feedback before downloading apps and stick to trusted app stores for safety.

5. Install an Antivirus Application

It is often witnessed that the files you download or the apps you install on your mobile devices might contain malicious codes, and once launched, these codes are sent to hackers, making your device vulnerable. To safeguard your data from getting corrupted, you can install antivirus applications that will destroy worms, spyware, and other destructive programming, giving you constant insurance against new threats. In addition, new-age antivirus programs also offer to clear your browsing history and delete cookies. This extra layer of protection will aid you to stop leaking crucial information to cybercriminals.

Final Thoughts

As mobile device users are facing new vulnerabilities every day, it is essential to make sure that you are not prey to hackers.

At a business level, organizations must understand the importance of these threats and consider creating a cybersecurity plan that prevents security breaches through mobile devices.

Even staff members who are using mobile devices must go through awareness training. With robust training, if the mobile device gets corrupted, employees can immediately start following rules and regulations to encrypt the files and inform the cybersecurity professional to take remote access to the device. By embracing these tips and strategies, you can create a digitally safe environment for every employee.