Is your business ready for mobile malware attacks? Most businesses in 2018 have staff and leaders who use mobile devices for business purposes, whether they are using personal or company devices. It is easy to understand why. With mobile devices, accessing work emails and opening shared files on the go is easy and efficient. Mobile devices are a reality of today’s workforce — are you prepared for the threats they could bring? First, it is important to understand why mobile devices create security vulnerabilities. Typically, when users think of cybersecurity, they think about downloading anti-virus software and not opening suspicious attachments. They are ready to thwart threats that target their desktop devices and their laptops. When it comes to smartphones and tablets, they are not as vigilant. However, mobile malware attacks are becoming increasingly common. For example, last year, McAfee had detected more than 1.5 million new incidents of malware targeting mobile devices. Why are hackers targeting mobile users now more than ever? The answer is simple: they know that users are relying on their devices more and more, without putting cybersecurity practices in place. Today, business owners can no longer afford to overlook mobile protection as a key element to their cybersecurity strategy. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take immediately.

1. Require employees to practice regular software updates to ensure they are running the latest mobile security patches.
2. Encourage use of two-factor authentication and locking devices with strong PINs and/or Touch ID, just as you require strong passwords for desktops.
3. Remind employees to update their apps. As with your Operating System, app developers frequently update apps with security patches. If your employees are not running the latest versions, they are not protected from known vulnerabilities.

It is important to understand that these are only your first steps toward stronger mobile protection. In fact, there are many other ways to protect your business from threats to mobile security. Mobile threats are constantly evolving, and you need an IT partner who will stay up-to-date on the latest trends. Don’t leave your network exposed. Contact Integritek. We will help you set up other critical protections and procedures, like VPNs, so that your employees are never connecting through vulnerable public Wi-Fi networks. Our IT experts will be your allies in the face of mobile malware threats. We can help you understand the cybersecurity landscape, the threats hackers pose to mobile devices, and how you can strengthen your defenses and train your employees to practice better mobile protection habits. Take the initial step to protecting your business network from threats targeting mobile device users. Contact Integritek today to learn more about our mobile protection services.