Securing Your Business’s Mobile Data: A Guide for Chicago’s Small Businesses

The New Age of Mobile Security

Welcome to the digital era, Chicago’s small business owners! As your local IT experts, we understand the vital role your mobile devices play in your business operations. But as these devices become more sophisticated, so do the risks associated with them. In this friendly, educational guide, we’ll explore the latest security features in 2024 that can help protect your business’s mobile data.

Understanding the Threats: Why Mobile Security Matters

Our phones are more than just communication tools; they’re powerful computers with access to sensitive information. This makes them attractive targets for cybercriminals. A recent MIT study highlighted a staggering 2.6 billion personal records breached in 2021 and 2022. With the rise in mobile malware, adware, and riskware attacks, it’s clear that protecting your mobile devices is no longer optional—it’s essential, especially for business owners.

Business Owners Beware: The Importance of a Mobile Policy

As a business owner, you must ask: Are my employees using secure devices for work-related tasks? The absence of a strong mobile policy could be your network’s weakest link. It’s crucial to ensure your IT team addresses this gap immediately.

Apple’s Leap in Security: Advanced Data Protection

For Apple users, the introduction of Advanced Data Protection (ADP) marks a significant upgrade in cloud data security. This feature extends end-to-end encryption to various Apple services, ensuring that your data remains inaccessible even during a cloud breach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to activating ADP on your Apple devices:

1. Update your devices to the latest software versions.
2. Navigate to Settings, tap your name, then select iCloud.
3. Scroll down to find Advanced Data Protection and turn it on.
4. Follow the prompts to set up a recovery contact or key, if needed.
5. You may need to update other devices or wait for a security timeframe to enable this feature.

Android’s Security Enhancements: Keeping Your Data Safe

Android users fear not! Google Play Protect and encrypted Google One backups provide robust security for your data. Here’s how to secure your Android device:

1. Open the Google One app.
2. Go to Storage and then View under “Backup”.
3. Adjust your backup settings as needed.
4. Grant any necessary permissions.
5. Remember, that backups may take time to complete.

Comprehensive Protection: Beyond Your Phone

While these features offer a layer of security, they’re just the beginning. For comprehensive protection, consider a third-party Cybersecurity Risk Assessment. This free assessment can identify vulnerabilities in your network, including mobile device policies, helping you stay ahead of potential threats.

To ensure every device on your network is secure, CIO Landing is offering a FREE Cybersecurity Risk Assessment. This no-obligation assessment where one of our experts will examine your network and let you know if and where you’re vulnerable to an attack, including your mobile device policy.  Schedule your assessment with one of our senior advisors by calling us at 888-308-8879 or going to www.ciolanding.com/csa/.

Stay Secure, Stay Ahead

In the fast-paced world of business, staying informed about the latest security measures is key to safeguarding your data. Remember, effective IT support for Chicago small businesses isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about preventing them. As your trusted local IT experts, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges and keep your business secure. Stay safe out there, Chicago!