When considering the implementation of an enterprise mobility strategy, security must be one of the primary concerns addressed. If strong security measures are put in place throughout the entire process, from enterprise mobile app development to deployment to daily use by employees, then the introduction of a mobility strategy can provide real ROI. But if security is lacking in any way, allowing mobile access to your company’s data and network can do more harm than good.
For this reason, we’ve assembled a list of four vital security app considerations that must be explored as you build your mobile development strategy. By strengthening these four areas of your mobile app security plan, you’ll create multiple layers of protection. This will allow you to rest assured that your company’s data will be safe from security breaches, and focus on reaping the benefits of your new enterprise mobile strategy.
4 Crucial Security Areas of Your Mobile Strategy
1. Device Security: A logical place to begin applying security measures is on the mobile device itself. All devices used as part of an enterprise mobile strategy should be set up to require passwords, and to lock automatically when not in use. Data encryption should also be part and parcel of the security set-up. But a tight security protocol shouldn’t stop there.
A list of each individual device able to access the company network should be maintained, along with details about each one, such as type and operating system. IT should monitor device usage, and enforce compliance with company security policies through occasional audits. Any device found to be violating regulations should be immediately quarantined.
Devices can also have their settings configured so that access to specific apps is blocked during working hours, or when at certain locations, such as the office. In this way, employees aren’t tempted to use Facebook, for example, in a setting where company data might inadvertently be leaked.
Finally, provisions must be put in place so that if a device is stolen or lost, it can be located, locked, and remotely wiped of all data. Mobile devices used as part of a BYOD program must also have the capability to be selectively wiped of company data if an employee leaves, so that his or her personal data remains.
2. App Security: Once the device itself is secure, the next step is to ensure app security. Enterprise mobile apps should only be made available to employees on an as-needed basis, through a company app store that can distribute them in a protected way. IT should have access to a list of all apps running on every mobile device with access to the company network, and when company apps are in use, the capability should exist for the company to blacklist any other apps that could compromise security. Mobile app tunnels should also be created, to allow shielded communication between employees and apps.
3. Network Security: The company network itself will require the ability to monitor activity on all devices, keeping an eye out for issues such as data leaks or compliance violations. It will also need to be able to block users and devices if they are detected to have attempted to perform an unauthorized action.
4. Data Security: Finally, the data itself must be secured in a content locker, preventing data leakage while still granting access to employees who require its use both individually and in collaboration with other employees.
Once each of these four areas has been made secure, your company will be free to take advantage of the full potential of its new enterprise mobility strategy, increasing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and boosting productivity.
At 7T, our developers understand the importance of mobile security and work hard to make security a top priority during the development process. Whether it is data encryption, multi-factor authentication or even remote wipe, we work with your business to implement a data security solution that fits your needs.
In addition to app development, 7T also specializes in custom software development, data governance, and system integrations. Based in Dallas, 7T maintains regional offices located in Chicago and Houston. To discuss your development project, contact the 7T team today.
