Mobile risks highlighted
Analyst recommends security policies for mobile devices
Firms should enforce security policies on mobile devices and use encryption to cut the risks arising from theft, according to analyst firm Burton Group.
Legal liability for information found on misplaced machines and the increasing number of virus attacks are the main threats, according to the report, Managing and Securing the Mobile Device.
Michael Disabato, service director at Burton Group, recommended data encryption as the mainstay of mobile security.
"A checklist for any mobile use policy should include wireless LANs, public hotspots, home networks, the corporate network, usage of mobile phones and reporting the theft or loss of devices," he said.
Nick Evans, head of mobility at reseller IT Partnerships, said: "There was an initial rush of enthusiasm for wireless, but people are stepping back and looking at what wireless means to their network as a whole."
He added that there were two possible approaches. "The first is to encrypt the data on the device. Another option is to web-enable, so no data is held on the device. Either way, this area is worth getting into for resellers."