Anyone keeping an eye on news headlines across the world knows that these are difficult times for internet security. Websites are being hacked and entire computer systems are being brought down left and right. In some instances, entire countries were hit so hard that they couldn’t even respond.
If you’re a website owner, you’ll appreciate the fact that the only reason your site is up is because the bad guys haven’t gotten around to hitting your web hosting service provider.
But are you really helpless? Not at all! You can take measures right now that will make it more difficult for hackers or malware to gain access to your systems and sites. That’s why you should always be aware of mobile malware and what it can do to your business.
What is Mobile Malware?
Malware is the amalgamation of two words – malicious and software. Mobile malware are pieces of code that were specifically written to target mobile devices like your smartphones and tablets. Typically, they:
- Damage the devices’ operating systems
- Delete files on the devices
- Lock or encrypt files and folders on the devices to hold them for ransom
- Run silently on the devices to spy on their usage and data
- Lie dormant in anticipation of connecting to a network system they can then jump into and access
If you run a website, that last point should be especially worrisome. Here’s why.
IoT and BYOD is the Norm
More and more businesses are relying on the IoT (Internet of Things) and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). As businesses become more dependent on technology, they need to ensure all their employees can access their data using gadgets and devices using offsite devices, like their own personal laptops and computers.
Once everyone is connected to the main network, your staff may need to access every intelligent device connected to the Internet of Things. That includes everything from servers and computers to the company car parked outside.
It’s these two technologies that could be the bane of your business’ existence when it comes to mobile malware. Any malicious code that resides on your devices could easily jump into your network and wreak havoc on all the other devices connected to it. Alternatively, those controlling the malware can simply sit tight and glean all the information going through your network.
What Can You Do About It?
If you’re going to let devices connect to your network, you have to do it very carefully. Below are some steps you can take to ensure no malware gets in.
1. Up to Date Anti-Malware
Every network and all connected devices need to have the latest version of anti-malware installed – from servers to mobile devices. To ensure maximum protection, make sure all machines have updated to the latest editions.
2. Better Awareness
Everyone that connects to your network needs to be made aware of the risks that mobile malware poses and the damage it can cause. The best way to shock them into being proactive is to inform them that their own data could be compromised. Dedicate time for everyone to update their machines. Send out literature outlining the risks and exactly how to thwart them.
3. Strict Access Control
While BYOD and IoT will make things easier for your business to run, it doesn’t mean that every device should be able to connect haphazardly. Maintain a strict protocol over what device gains access and to which piece of information. Further ensure security by regularly forcing your employees to re-register their devices and change their passwords.
4. Push Your Software
Once the devices are connected, you can push your own piece of code that will limit the amount of control connected gadgets have. You can also block any executables from running on the devices – with the exception of your work applications. This will limit the accessibility of any mobile malware, even if it has already been carried into your network.
Put a policy in place: once you’ve covered all network and connected devices, you should focus on your users. A policy should be put in place that will define, among other things:
- Devices that can be used
- Applications that can be installed
- Third-party software that’s allowed
- Times of access
- Physical security of the devices and who can access them
Put everyone on the same page and enforce this policy strictly. Regularly come back to it and update it accordingly in the face of any new threats or weaknesses.
Stay Safe
Finally, always be aware that threats from outside your network are constant and real. Thank your lucky stars you haven’t been hit so far, but take action and do everything you can to ensure prevention and adequate recover (should you be attacked). Stay safe!
