When it comes to today’s workforce, some 80 percent admit to using their mobile devices for dual purposes at home and at work. These must-have mobility tools could then become a ticking time bomb for companies not currently managing the devices and the data thereby accessed on them. Naturally, the need for securing such data is critical … and according to recent research, this is becoming an increasing priority for both the employer and the device owner.
A recent study conducted by the Ponemon Institute titled “How Much Is the Data on Your Mobile Device Worth?” showed that respondents valued the combination of their stored corporate and personal information, as well as the device replacement cost, at approximately $14,000! Photos were valued the highest at $3,074, with contact lists (personal and business) coming in second at $2,654 and personal apps third at $2,096. While it seems rather straightforward that an asset of this value should be protected, research shows otherwise.
The study indicates that despite an increasing amount of sensitive and confidential information stored on mobile devices, both personal and enterprise security practices are not providing adequate protection. Fifty-five percent of respondents said they are concerned about the work-related data they access and store on their mobile devices, yet about half are currently taking no measures to address this. To complicate matters further, a whopping 68 percent of respondents admitted to sharing passwords across personal and work accounts.
Though many IT departments understand that these looming security issues exist, they may not quite grasp the extent of the problem. The study showed that the IT department believes only 19 percent of employees have access to customer records, whereas 43 percent of polled employees claim they do.
As if those figures about mixing business and personal data weren’t enough to scare companies into action, a recent Verizon Topline Report states that nearly half (49 percent) of smartphone owners admit to losing or breaking a personal device. For lost devices in particular, this represents yet another data vulnerability companies must work to prevent before sensitive information becomes available for public consumption.
Ultimately, the need for a comprehensive mobile strategy anchored by enterprise mobility management can help your business take a proactive approach to protecting its most valuable assets. Though previously many organizations have been concerned with employee onboarding, the self-reported importance of mobile devices and their contents by employees is making it easier to generate buy-in for mobile security policies and procedures. After all, the data speaks for itself: 12 percent of Verizon’s respondents would rather lose their “mojo” than lose their mobile phone!
To determine how best to incorporate data security into your mobility strategy, contact our team of experts for help.
