Mobile Phone Data Security
Mobile phones make life very easy on the one hand, and very difficult on the other. Here's why.A study by TAXI, the magazine for the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association, revealed that during a six-month period a staggering 63,135 mobile phones were mistakenly left in London cabs. If they contained customer data and information that was not secure, then their owners could find themselves in breach of the Data Protection Act.MOBILE PHONE DATA SECURITY
Mobile phones are common tools of the trade now for many businesses. However, in recent years these devices have become much more sophisticated. Many have the capacity to store over one million emails, as well as contact details of an entire customer base and other sensitive information, such as word documents and spreadsheets.
Awareness
Think how important the data on your mobile phone is. Be aware, too, that if your employees are equipped with a company mobile phone, they must similarly be conscious of the importance of any stored information and contact details. We strongly recommend that you look at your own mobile device security strategy, and that of your company.
Precautions
As a first step you should note down your mobile device’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. This is often found underneath the battery and your mobile provider will require it when you report the loss or theft of your mobile. This should be a mandatory safety measure for all staff with company mobiles.
Seven Steps to Take
Here are some of the other things you should consider in formulating your mobile security strategy:
- Enable the “Automatic Lock” function on your device, and set the lock period to the minimum time
- Enable the “Require Pin” function or, if the option is available, the lock device on SIM card removal
- If you use memory cards, enable the “Encrypt External Storage” option if supported by your device
- Only store essential names, numbers and documents on your mobile phone
- Check with your mobile provider if your device supports “Remote Wipe”, and know how to implement this
- Keep your mobile provider’s number handy as they can disable your phone when you give them your IMEI
- Be prepared to notify the Information Commissioner and your customers if a mobile device with customer data is lost/stolen
Further Action
There may be other things specific to your business that you need to think about, and you may need to create a workplace policy to ensure all staff are aware of the implications of storing data on mobile devices.
