Remote work is here to stay, and with the rise in working from anywhere comes a rise in the desire to work from any device. Many companies are shifting from company-issued hardware to the use of personally owned devices, or Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). While it’s convenient for everyone it brings a number of risks, which makes a bulletproof BYOD security policy is a must.
Before your organization jumps on the BYOD bandwagon, there’s a lot to consider, and if the practice is already in place, you may need to update your policies.
Why is BYOD Becoming So Popular?
To some workers and companies, BYOD seems like a great idea while others are reluctant to adopt it. So far the data shows that the pros outweigh the cons — as long as you have a strong BYOD security policy in place.
Companies can cut the continuous expense of buying or renting new hardware. The truth is that most of your employees would rather work on devices they are already comfortable using. [Text Wrapping Break][Text Wrapping Break]Plus, greater convenience allows for better collaboration, especially when devices are integrated with unified communications platforms and messaging software.
Why Organizations Need a BYOD Security Policy
Without a plan and airtight BYOD security policy, employees’ personal devices become a liability.
When employees use their own devices for work, security risks include:
- Exposure to potential viruses and malware attacks.
- Vulnerability to devices being lost or stolen.
- Users downloading unsafe content or apps.
- Data leaks.
- Regulation compliance issues.
- Outdated security software.
- Device management logistics.
- Inability to control endpoint security.
You can safeguard against the inherent risks of BYOD by having solid security standards and protocols.
Defining a Simple and Secure BYOD Policy
A BYOD policy must describe and define its points, including compatibility requirements, rules on what is or isn’t an acceptable device, security requirements (such as antivirus software), and anything else that may be necessary to include.
You’ll also need to be familiar with the components your organization’s BYOD policy needs to include everything from an acceptable use guide to privacy provisions to regular employee training.
Ultimately, your IT team needs this information to determine how to close in and mitigate any potential security threats in your network.
Your BYOD Implementation Plan
Implementing a BYOD policy is not as easy as simply inviting all of your employees to bring their own devices. It’ll take a few months, perhaps even longer, to get started and get your BYOD security plan in place.
Our partners at Evolve IP have created a BYOD implementation plan for you to make the process a little bit simpler.
To learn everything you need to implement a successful and productive BYOD experience, download Evolve IP’s Executive Guide to Implementing a Secure BYOD Policy now.
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