Tech Tip: Don't Forget About Phone Security

Most people are careful with their laptops, but the smartphone in your pocket often has access to the same work email, files, apps, and saved passwords. The difference is that it rarely gets the same level of security attention.

Take a few minutes to check the basics:

Use a screen lock

Every phone that accesses work data should be protected with a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. A lost phone without a lock gives anyone immediate access to what's inside.

Keep automatic updates turned on

Phone manufacturers regularly release security updates to fix newly discovered vulnerabilities. Running an outdated device can leave known security gaps open to attackers.

Only install apps from official stores

Stick to the Apple App Store or Google Play. Apps downloaded from random websites or links are a common source of malware and security risks.

Enable remote wipe capabilities

If a phone is lost or stolen, you need a way to remove company data quickly. Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace can both remotely remove business data, but only if the device has been configured beforehand.

If your team uses personal phones for work (BYOD), company data doesn't need to mix with personal information. A secure work profile can be set up that keeps business email and files separate, allowing company data to be locked or wiped without affecting personal photos, messages, or apps.

A secure phone is just as important as a secure laptop. A few simple settings can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major security incident.