Need a BYOD Policy For Your Business?

Do you have a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy at work?

With more remote working taking place, businesses today need a clear BYOD policy which sets out the devices which may or may not be connected to a company network. This is to ensure robust IT Security and GDPR compliance as well.

With remote staff using using personal smartphones, tablets, and laptops to access company data it is vital that security issues are addressed. We take a look at what should be in your BYOD policy. From initial audit to setting out policy for device use. A strong BYOD policy will protect against the potential risks with staff using personal devices for work.

Robust Security

Creating a successful BYOD policy means focusing on security as well. Looking at how your company data stored and who has access to it. As an employer keeping information secure is required as a "data controller" under the current GDPR guidelines. Obligations under the GDPR laws mean that businesses must comply with regulations regarding the secure collection, storage and usage of personal information. In addition, a data breach can lead to costly disruption as well as a possible fine. Business needs to provide secure access to cloud applications to staff and remote workers.

Audit of existing devices

The first thing to do is to take a look at all your existing staff devices. Make a list, so you know how many there are and which manufacturers, model numbers and operating systems. Finding out which devices use the business network, will help to providing device security plan.

Decide which devices will be allowed

The next step is to decide which devices to include or exclude from your BYOD policy. Make a detailed list of allowed apps and devices along with the rules of use. It is important that procedures are in place to ensure that non-approved devices can never be connected.

Depending on the needs of your business there are different approaches to consider.

Allowing approved devices only

This means that you approve a list of devices can access the network.

Allowing any device

This allows any staff device to have access to the company network.

Taking a zero-tolerance approach

Choosing a zero-tolerance policy and not allowing staff to use their own devices. This means that businesses provide devices for use instead. This significantly reduces the risk of data leaks by allowing only authenticated, secure devices access to company networks.

Mobile device management (MDM)

Most businesses will want to restrict access to certain applications. Depending on the size and type of business some will require email and internet access only. For larger more complex business requirements access to networks and applications may be needed.

Understanding what data is being transferred from and to which devices helps when performing a risk assessment, should data be lost or stolen. Here at HelpDesk Heroes we provide Mobile Device Management services which include taking care of tasks including device reset services to sandboxing data. We take care of infrastructure security changes and procure for you.

Data encryption should also be considered

In addition to a robust BYOD policy, all confidential business and personal data should be encrypted. Encrypting your business network is essential for keeping your communications and data secure. We advise and implement all aspects of cloud data encryption and IT security.

Staff and management

Provide staff training to ensure your business is prepared if a device with access to sensitive business data is lost, stolen or compromised. Assign a member of staff to be responsible for replacing lost or stolen devices. Make sure all staff know who to contact and what to do if a device is stolen. It is important to make sure you are able to revoke access to business data or remote wipe quickly.

At Helpdesk Heroes London we provide professional IT services for your business. Call us on 20 3831 2780 if you think you need to review your BYOD strategy. Our team can implement a cost-effective and user-friendly BYOD policy. We will give you advice on the best solutions for you.

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