BYOD and mobile device security best practices
Get the latest news, advice and information on Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) security. Learn about how BYOD security policies and mobile device security best practices can prevent attacks, and stay up to date on the most pressing mobile threats such as OS vulnerabilities and malicious apps.
Top Stories
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News
30 Sep 2021
Researchers hack Apple Pay, Visa 'Express Transit' mode
Academic researchers discover an attack technique that enables them to make fraudulent transactions on locked iPhones when Apple Pay and Visa cards are set up for transit mode. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Sep 2021
Mobile device management vs. mobile application management
Mobile device management and mobile application management do different things but also overlap. Knowing their differences is important. Continue Reading
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News
30 Sep 2021
Researchers hack Apple Pay, Visa 'Express Transit' mode
Academic researchers discover an attack technique that enables them to make fraudulent transactions on locked iPhones when Apple Pay and Visa cards are set up for transit mode. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Sep 2021
Mobile device management vs. mobile application management
Mobile device management and mobile application management do different things but also overlap. Knowing their differences is important. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 May 2021
12 essential features of advanced endpoint security tools
In addition to protecting an organization's endpoints from threats, IT administrators can use endpoint security tools to monitor operation functions and DLP strategies. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 May 2021
Endpoint security strategy: Focus on endpoints, apps or both?
Companies know how to secure traditional endpoints, but what about mobile devices outside the network? They should decide if they want to protect devices, apps or both. Continue Reading
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News
12 May 2021
Hacker makes short work of Apple AirTag jailbreak
A security researcher discovered a jailbreaking method for Apple's new mobile locating tracking devices, which were introduced just last month. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
27 Jan 2021
2021 cybersecurity predictions: Oh, where cybersecurity may go
Jonathan Meyers sees 2021 bringing cybersecurity challenges to the forefront, like more cyberattacks on local governments, BYOD security issues and AI and ML overhype. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2020
3 must-ask post-pandemic questions for CISOs
The worldwide health pandemic has created multiple challenges for today's CISOs and their security teams. Ask these three questions to stay safe in a post-pandemic workplace. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 May 2020
Top 3 advantages of smart cards -- and potential disadvantages
As smart card adoption increases, it is prudent to take a closer look at how this technology can improve data security. Here, read more about the benefits of smart cards. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 May 2020
How to balance secure remote working with on-site employees
Post-pandemic, organizations must strike the right balance between on-site and remote work security. Here's how to make sure your cybersecurity program is prepared. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jan 2020
Ownership scenario should dictate mobile device policies
The policies organizations should deploy for BYOD devices compared to kiosk devices are very different. Learn how organizations should approach these policy decisions. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2019
New tech steers identity and access management evolution
IAM is evolving to incorporate new technologies -- like cloud-based services and containerization -- promising more secure, granular management of access to company IT assets. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Aug 2019
Is your identity management up to the task?
IAM is an organization's best defense for its weakest link, end users. Make sure you're following the right framework and keeping your tools honed and ready for battle. Continue Reading
- E-Zine 01 Aug 2019
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Tip
19 Jul 2019
Apple and Google simplify BYOD management with new OSes
IT must weigh user privacy and endpoint security when it shapes its BYOD policies. Luckily, new features in iOS 13 and Android Q make this balance easier for IT to strike. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Jun 2019
What can IT do to enhance Android security?
Android is just as secure as its competitors' OSes, but IT should still remain vigilant. Here are three ways to secure Android devices for the enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
17 May 2019
How Google turned 1.5 billion Android phones into 2FA keys
Google product manager Christiaan Brand discusses the journey to making 1.5 billion Android devices work as 2FA security keys and the plan for the future. Continue Reading
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News
08 May 2019
Google I/O 2019 keynote brings focus on security and privacy
After being a no-show at last year's conference, security and privacy improvements were big themes at Google I/O's first day, including discussion on federated learning. Continue Reading
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News
31 Dec 2018
Why dating app security flaws should concern enterprises
Vulnerable dating apps on BYODs pose risks to more than just individual users. Find out what security flaws are common in these apps and what they mean for enterprises. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2018
How a flaw in Apple DEP misuses an MDM server
Hackers are able to enroll their devices in an organization's MDM server via a flaw in Apple DEP. Expert Michael Cobb explains how hackers conduct these attacks. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Dec 2018
How can users remove Google location tracking completely?
Disabling Google location tracking involves more than turning off Location History. Learn how to manage your account settings to stop tracking entirely with expert Michael Cobb. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Sep 2018
How does Android Protected Confirmation provide security for users?
Android P integrates Android Protected Confirmation, which provides sufficient trust in the authentication process. Learn more about this new feature with expert Michael Cobb. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Sep 2018
How does the Android Rowhammer exploit affect users?
Android Rowhammer is a hardware weakness in older devices that puts users at risk of remote exploits. Expert Michael Cobb explains why it's important to upgrade to newer devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jul 2018
Combat mobile device security threats at home and abroad
Employees that travel for business face a higher risk of a mobile security breach. Take these steps to ensure that your mobile device fleet is secure. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jul 2018
How to manage security threats to mobile devices
As mobile device security threats increase, IT administrators should know what they are up against and develop strategies to secure mobile devices from cyber attacks. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jun 2018
Unprotected Firebase databases leaked over 100 million records
Android and iOS mobile apps that use unprotected Firebase databases leaked over 100 million records that include PHI, financial records and authentication information. Continue Reading
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News
06 Jun 2018
Apple iOS 12 USB Restricted Mode to foil thieves, law enforcement
A rumored security feature, USB Restricted Mode, is making its premiere in Apple's iOS 12 and will protect users from brute-force passcode attacks by thieves and law enforcement alike. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 May 2018
How did Strava's Global Heatmap disclose sensitive U.S. info?
Fitness tracking app Strava released its Global Heatmap that unknowingly disclosed routes of U.S. soldiers. Discover how this happened and how geolocation data can be blocked. Continue Reading
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News
21 Feb 2018
Android Enterprise Recommended touts quick security updates
Google's new program certifies devices that meet minimum hardware requirements, provide regular Android security updates and offer a consistent management experience. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2018
Mobile security issues require a unified approach
Security gaps in mobile devices can be many and varied, but they must be addressed immediately. Unified endpoint management is the next-gen way to close the gaps. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2018
Counter mobile device security threats with unified tools
Attacks on enterprise mobile endpoints are more lethal than ever. To help infosec pros fight back, enterprise mobile management has unified to fortify defenses. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jan 2018
The top six EMM vendors offering MDM capabilities
With vendors expanding their horizons from just MDM to more comprehensive EMM products, it is crucial to look at these EMM vendors who offer MDM capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jan 2018
Comparing the leading mobile device management products
Expert Matt Pascucci examines the top mobile device management offerings to help you determine which MDM products are the best fit for your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jan 2018
Six questions to ask before buying enterprise MDM products
Mobile device management can be a crucial part of enterprise security. Expert Matt Pascucci presents the key questions to ask when investigating MDM products. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Jan 2018
Unknown apps: How does Android Oreo control installation?
Android Oreo replaced the allow unknown sources setting with a new feature that enables users to selectively install unknown apps. Kevin Beaver explains what this change means. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Jan 2018
Three enterprise scenarios for MDM products
Expert Matt Pascucci outlines three enterprise uses cases for mobile device management products to see how they can protect users, devices and corporate data. Continue Reading
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Answer
02 Jan 2018
Broadpwn flaw: How does the new iOS exploit compare?
An iOS exploit similar to the Broadpwn flaw was recently developed by a researcher at Google's Project Zero. Expert Kevin Beaver explains what the exploit is and how it works. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Dec 2017
Which 4G vulnerabilities should BYOD users be aware of?
Enterprises should consider pressing 4G vulnerabilities when developing a BYOD strategy for their employees. Expert Judith Myerson explains the flaws and what to do about them. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Dec 2017
BlueBorne vulnerabilities: Are your Bluetooth devices safe?
Armis Labs discovered a series of vulnerabilities that enables remote connection to Bluetooth devices. Learn more about the BlueBorne vulnerabilities with expert Matt Pascucci. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Dec 2017
iOS updates: Why are some Apple products behind on updates?
A study by Zimperium found that more than 23% of iOS devices aren't running the latest software. Matt Pascucci explains how this is possible, even though Apple controls iOS updates. Continue Reading
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Podcast
15 Nov 2017
Risk & Repeat: App store security measures falling short
In this week's Risk & Repeat podcast, SearchSecurity editors discuss the recent discovery of a fake WhatsApp app in the Google Play Store and what that means for app store security. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2017
Need help making Wi-Fi secure? Consider some 'classic' approaches
Keeping your Wi-Fi secure is a challenge, to say the least. Security hasn't kept up with Wi-Fi advances, but there are steps you can take to keep your Wi-Fi network protected. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Oct 2017
What knowledge factors qualify for true two-factor authentication?
Can two-factor authentication be applied to a mobile device that's used as a 2FA factor? Michael Cobb explores the different knowledge factors and uses for mobile devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Oct 2017
How does Google Play Protect aim to improve Android security?
Google's new security platform, Google Play Protect, looks to decrease Android app security threats through machine learning. Michael Cobb explains how the new platform works. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Sep 2017
Should an enterprise BYOD strategy allow the use of Gmail?
Using personal Gmail accounts for business purposes is not a secure enterprise BYOD strategy. Expert Matthew Pascucci discusses why companies should avoid implementing this tactic. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Jul 2017
Samsung Knox platform: Can it improve Android device security?
Application security expert Michael Cobb discusses the Samsung Knox platform and its ability to improve Android device security in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Jul 2017
Android sandboxing tools: How can work data separation be bypassed?
Android for Work's sandboxing tools, which split work and personal profiles, can be bypassed with a proof-of-concept attack. Expert Michael Cobb explains how the attack works. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jul 2017
Flawed Broadcom Wi-Fi chipsets get a fix, but flaw remains a mystery
Broadpwn, a flaw in Broadcom Wi-Fi chipsets, is patched, but Google withholds details. Plus, the latest in the antivirus drama between the U.S. and Russia, and more. Continue Reading
- 05 Jul 2017
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Tip
06 Jun 2017
How mobile application assessments can boost enterprise security
Mobile application assessments can help enterprises decide which apps to allow, improving security. Christopher Crowley of the SANS Institute discusses how to use app assessments. Continue Reading
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News
26 May 2017
Artificial intelligence data privacy issues on the rise
End users are in the crosshairs of business data privacy issues, especially when it comes to information gleaned from artificial intelligence technologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2017
What the end of hot patching mobile apps means for enterprise security
Apple now restricts mobile app developers from using hot patching, as the technique can change app behavior after it is reviewed. Expert Kevin Beaver goes over enterprise concerns. Continue Reading
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Guide
04 May 2017
Mobile endpoint security: What enterprise infosec pros must know now
Do you know how to take care of mobile endpoint security in your enterprise? This guide walks you through all aspects of the issue, from policy and strategy to emerging threats. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Apr 2017
Insecure OAuth implementations: How are mobile app users at risk?
Mobile apps using insecure OAuth could lead to over one billion user accounts being attacked. Expert Michael Cobb explains how developers can implement OAuth securely. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2017
Android VPN apps: How to address privacy and security issues
New research on Android VPN apps revealed the extent of their privacy and security flaws. Expert Kevin Beaver explains how IT professionals can mitigate the risks. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Mar 2017
Pork Explosion Android flaw: How is it used to create a backdoor?
The Pork Explosion vulnerability present in some Foxconn-created app bootloaders can be used to create an Android backdoor. Expert Nick Lewis explains how the flaw works. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Feb 2017
How did iOS 10 security checks open brute force risk on local backups?
A password-verification flaw in iOS 10 allowed attackers to decrypt local backups. Expert Michael Cobb explains how removing certain security checks led to this vulnerability. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Jul 2016
How can the AirDroid app phone hijacking be prevented?
A vulnerability in the AirDroid device manager app left users at risk of phone hijacking. Expert Michael Cobb explains how the exploit works, and what can be done to prevent it. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Apr 2016
How does the M-Pesa service work and what are the risks?
How does mobile microfinancing service M-Pesa allow users to make transactions without a bank account? Expert Michael Cobb explains how it works and M-Pesa security measures. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Mar 2016
Outdated apps: What are the best ways to address them?
Dead and outdated apps can pose serious security risks for enterprises. Expert Nick Lewis explains how to find and remove dead apps before they become a problem. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Nov 2015
Lessons in mobile data loss protection for enterprise IT pros
With mobile devices everywhere in the enterprise now, learning tactics for data loss protection must become an IT priority. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Oct 2015
Cyber Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Defense
In this excerpt of Cyber Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Defense, author Robert Shimonski describes commonly used mobile technology and how phone tracking works. Continue Reading
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News
28 Aug 2015
Internet of Things security concerns prompt boost in IoT services
News roundup: As Internet of Things concerns become an enterprise reality, one vendor is quick to offer IoT services to combat the risks. Plus: 1% of users create 75% of the risk; Target pays up; Apple devices improperly secured in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Aug 2015
How can I mitigate the risks of alternative Android browsers?
Expert Michael Cobb explains the security risks surrounding alternative Web browsers, as well as approaches enterprises can take to prevent BYOD employees from using them. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2015
What is endpoint security? What benefits does it offer?
The increased number of smartphones, laptops and other endpoints in the enterprise is a major security concern. Learn what endpoint security is and how it can help combat your enterprise security woes. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2015
Detecting backdoors: The Apple backdoor that never was?
The debate over the purported Apple backdoor leaves enterprises asking, "When is a backdoor not a backdoor?" Application security expert Michael Cobb explains the difference. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jun 2014
Are malicious mobile apps a mere inconvenience or a real threat?
How big a security threat are the malicious mobile apps riding into your enterprise on employees' mobile devices? Continue Reading
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Quiz
22 Feb 2013
Quiz: Managing BYOD endpoint security
In this six question quiz, test your knowledge of our Security School lesson on managing BYOD endpoint security. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2013
BYOD security: How to remotely wipe iPhone and Android devices
Remote data wipe is key to any BYOD security policy, but each OS handles it differently. Lisa Phifer covers how to use it with other controls to protect data. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2012
Putting the mobile botnet threat in perspective
While lucrative mobile botnets do exist, Industry experts provide a perspective on seems to be a relatively small mobile botnet threat. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2012
Examining Kindle Fire security, Silk browser security in the enterprise
Do Kindle Fire security issues, combined with weak Silk browser security, make the red-hot consumer device too risky for enterprises? Michael Cobb explains. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2012
Experts say it's time for a mobile security review
There are many mobile device management (MDM) platforms, but they may be unnecessary if you can use the security features native to the devices. Continue Reading
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News
21 Mar 2012
Top 10 mobile risks list highlights fundamental weaknesses
An OWASP team has unveiled a non-hyped list of weaknesses and how to properly mitigate them. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2012
NSA mobile security plan could be industry roadmap
Tight controls over the mobile device and the use of VPN tunnels could be employed in enterprise mobile security plans. Continue Reading
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News
06 Mar 2012
What are the best Android mobile security apps?
A security testing firm analyzed the malware detection capabilities in dozens of Android mobile security apps. Only 17 made the trustworthy list. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2011
Special report: 'Eye On' mobile security
SearchSecurity.com's news team explores the challenges and technologies enterprises must know to successfully manage mobile security. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2011
Symantec launches mobile security evaluation, app assessment services
Security assessment reviews an organization’s mobile security policies and technologies, evaluating the mobile security posture against a set of 15 core elements. Continue Reading
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News
01 Aug 2011
Gartner: Mobile device management products demand risk analysis
At the research firm's Gartner Symposium event, an analyst warned of mobile device management products’ abundant features and the need for a risk analysis. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jun 2011
Fight mobile attacks, data loss risks by locking down devices
Mobile malware has been minimal, but attackers are developing attacks that target smartphones to gain access to sensitive data, says security luminary Winn Schwartau. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jun 2011
Security risks prompt retooling of enterprise mobile security strategy
Cybercriminals will find ways to bypass native security restrictions on smartphones and other devices, says security luminary Winn Schwartau. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
06 May 2011
Webcast: Mobile security policy must-haves
Lost or stolen devices are currently the most imposing threat to data on mobile platforms. With more employees doing business on smartphones and tablet computers, security teams are being tasked with keeping the email and application data on those phones and other devices secure. In this presentation, Lisa Phifer explores the legal and liability issues surrounding data on smartphones and tablets as well as personal use and personal data conditions. Phifer will discuss security apps for mobile devices, authentication options and procedures for reporting lost or stolen devices. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
05 May 2011
Mobile security policy must-haves
In this presentation, Lisa Phifer explores the legal and liability issues surrounding data on smartphones and tablets as well as security apps for mobile devices, authentication options and procedures for reporting lost or stolen devices. Continue Reading
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Podcast
05 May 2011
Fact or fiction: Mobile device attacks
Access this podcast to find out how to avoid mobile threats, and discover which of the top five myths about mobile security are true and which are false. Continue Reading
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News
05 Apr 2011
iPad management: Securing iPads in a regulated world
An IT security manager was tasked with locking down new iPads in his organization. Learn how one infosec pro took charge of iPad security. Continue Reading
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News
31 Mar 2011
Mobile app attempts vigilante justice
A new Android application discovered by Symantec attempts to discipline users that download files illegally from unauthorized sites. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Feb 2011
Can smartphones get viruses and spread them to the network?
Today's powerful smartphones can sometimes spread viruses to the corporate network. Learn how it can happen and how to prevent it. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2010
Winn Schwartau on securing mobile devices
Security luminary Winn Schwartau talks about the threats posed by the growing use of smartphones in the workplace and the stuggles faced by IT professionals to properly secure them. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Oct 2010
How to secure GSM phones against cell phone eavesdropping
Every enterprise has mobile phones, and, due to a recent attack demonstrated by Chris Paget at Defcon, every enterprise is now open to the possibility of data theft or mobile DoS attacks. Learn more about the growing threats of cell network eavesdropping and spoofing. Continue Reading
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News
04 Aug 2010
iPhone jailbreaking exploit sparks mobile security concerns
The emergence of an exploit used by a website for iPhone "jailbreaking" has prompted security researchers to issue warnings about smartphone security. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2010
Spyware code targets BlackBerry users
Newly released proof-of-concept code could be tweaked for use on almost any device and demonstrates the need for caution with mobile applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Oct 2008
Recovering stolen laptops one step at a time
When a student's laptop was stolen last year on a university campus, police and IT investigators went to work, recovering it within a matter of weeks. Neil Spellman, one of the investigators on the case, offers some best practices on what to do if a laptop is taken, and how to prevent theft in the first place. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Apr 2008
Should iPhone email be sent without SSL encryption?
SSL encrypts all of the communication between your iPhone and your mail server. Network security expert Mike Chapple explains how important that feature really is. Continue Reading