As more businesses across North Carolina adopt flexible work environments, allowing employees to use their own devices – commonly known as BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) – has become a popular trend. While BYOD supports productivity, it also introduces unique cybersecurity risks.
For companies leveraging managed IT services, implementing a robust BYOD policy is essential. Here are 13 best practices to protect your organization when employees use personal devices for work.
Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solutions
With MDM tools, companies can manage and secure employee-owned devices. A trusted IT managed services provider can help you enforce device-level security policies, remotely wipe corporate data, and control access based on risk.
Create a Comprehensive BYOD Policy
Your managed IT services provider can assist in creating a clear BYOD policy that outlines:
- Approved apps and services
- Security requirements
- Acceptable use of personal devices
- Penalties for policy violations
Enforce Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Require strong, complex passwords and enable MFA for company apps and accounts. Biometrics like fingerprint or facial recognition add another layer of protection.
Encrypt Sensitive Company Data
Require encryption for data stored on personal devices. This protects sensitive files and emails from being accessed if the device is lost or stolen.
Implement Secure Access Controls
Limit access to company resources based on the employee’s role, and use conditional access policies to restrict access to sensitive data when accessed from non-secure locations or devices.
Separate Personal and Work Data
Use containerization or mobile workspace apps to isolate corporate data. This keeps work and personal information separate, making it easier to manage without affecting personal data.
Provide Employee Cybersecurity Training
Cybersecurity awareness is a critical piece of any BYOD strategy. Regularly train employees on cybersecurity practices, focusing on phishing, secure browsing, data protection, and what to do if they suspect a security incident on their device.
Require Regular Device Updates
Ensure that all employee devices are set to automatically update their operating systems and apps to protect against vulnerabilities in older versions.
Use a VPN for Remote Access
Require a virtual private network (VPN) for secure access to company resources when employees are working remotely, protecting data from being exposed on unsecured networks.
Monitor for Security Incidents
Set up monitoring to detect unusual access patterns, and investigate any suspicious activity. Anomalous access detection helps catch potential breaches early.
Have a Plan for Lost or Stolen Devices
Ensure employees know to report lost or stolen devices immediately. MDM solutions should be in place to remotely wipe company data from compromised devices.
Limit Access to Certain Apps or Services
Prevent sensitive data from being accessible on personal devices. For example, confidential files or sensitive apps might be restricted to company-issued devices only.
Conduct Regular Audits
Periodically audit employee-owned devices that connect to company resources. This includes checking for compliance with security policies, installed software, and data storage practices.
A secure BYOD environment allows your team to work more flexibly – without putting your company’s data at risk. Need help implementing BYOD best practices? Our team at ATCOM is here to support your business with comprehensive IT services, cybersecurity, and more.
