Research: The lowdown on mobile security

• Tags:
• Wlan,
• Mobile Devices,
• Enforcement,
• Theft

Rhetorik ZDNet.co.uk

Published: 25 Oct 2007 13:48 BST

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The proliferation in use of mobile devices brings with it a number of serious security concerns.

The small size and portability of the devices make them highly vulnerable to loss or theft. When this happens, it is important that strong access controls and data-protection measures are in place to protect against unauthorised access to data, network and email, as well as other inappropriate communications. The loss of data, contact lists and other information stored on the devices themselves can also be a major problem under these circumstances.

Furthermore, use of these devices by employees may lead to vulnerabilities in the organisation's network and information systems, possibly brought about by the introduction of virus or other malware obtained through user access to systems outside the company firewall. Without proper controls, use may also allow company employees to access unauthorised information, and the theft of valuable company data becomes much easier.

The need for organisations to adopt policies and put specific measures in place to counter these threats and vulnerabilities is strong and compelling. But how do they measure up in practice?

The research investigated the application of mobile-device security policies, their communication and enforcement across UK organisations. It also explored the different types of security threats present and their perceived importance, as well as the measures taken by organisations to combat these threats both now and in the near future.

This research was carried out as part of a broader research study sponsored by Orange UK investigating the top mobile trends today and their impact on UK enterprises. The study was undertaken by ZDNet.co.uk in association with Rhetorik, a specialist market-intelligence organisation that focuses specifically on European IT and telecommunications markets.

The survey used web-based survey techniques with a detailed questionnaire applied through the ZDNet.co.uk research panel as well as a broad sample of knowledgeable respondents drawn from readership of specialist CNET technical publications.

The research was conducted with a significant sample of 371 organisations of all types and sizes with some degree of mobility within the workforce. A breakdown of these respondents by size of organisation is presented below.

Figure 1: Breakdown by company size

Q42 Approximately how many people are employed in your organisation (in the UK)? (single response)
Base: All respondents; Total: 371
Source: Rhetorik 2007

Go to section: Executive summary Introduction, scope and methodology Mobile security policy Enforcement of mobile security policy Policy on the use of personal mobile devices Mobile-security measures in place About Rhetorik

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