Portable Device Security

Evaluate Usefulness
Does your company really need to use portable devices? Could your company work just as well without them? If you don't need them, or if only certain people benefit from them, limit their use as much as possible to save hassle.

Utilize Password Protection and Encryption
Many of the operating systems used on portable devices offer password protection. By turning it on, you present a very simple deterrent to unauthorized use. Encryption is also offered by some devices, and will allow you to further prevent access to confidential information.

Track Inventory and Label for Easy Return
Keep track of how many portable devices are in use, by whom, and what they are used for. Make sure each device is labelled (on the case or in the software) with your company's name and contact info for easy return if someone should find it. You also may want to register devices with a service such as Trackitback or StuffBak which helps return lost items to owners.

Keep Operating Systems Up-to-date
When devices sync with your office network, be sure to download any updates for the portable device's operating system to fix any bugs, check for viruses and vulnerabilities, and just to make sure its working like it should.

Restrict Access to Your Company Network
Prevent wireless connection from any devices reported as lost or stolen. Also, don't allow wireless or wired connection onto your network or office computers from personal devices, including mp3 players. Personal devices may not be updated like company devices, and may carry viruses or other flaws you want to keep off your system. It also prevents company documents from being transferred to personal devices.

Secure or Disable Bluetooth
While Bluetooth seems to be a useful system, a number of security concerns have been raised over the functionality and security of the Bluetooth network. With so many types of devices able to communicate using Bluetooth, and with a close proximity being one of the only factors for connection, you may have unauthorized connection to your company's portable devices by other Bluetooth-capable devices. You can secure your Bluetooth device by turning it to the "undiscoverable" setting, using a PIN of 8 characters or more, and by pairing with devices only in private locations. Also, never accept messages or pairing requests from unknown users. Alternatively, disabling Bluetooth if it isn't needed will prevent any unauthorized access to your device using this system.

Inform Employees
The most important thing to do is to inform your employees of the potential dangers associated with portable device security. Share any policies you may choose to create with them, and help them to use their devices safely. Explain how they can properly secure their devices. After all, they cannot be expected to secure their devices and information properly if they haven't been told how.

Sources:
www.pcmag.com, www.itarchitect.com, www.securitydocs.com, dis.wa.gov, www.expatica.com, www.csoonline.com, www.theregister.co.uk

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