May 30, 2017
Bring your own Device. Is there a dilemma?
The young students of today, whether in first grade or graduating from university, have grown up in a technological era. They will be familiar with iPads, smart phones….. they will also be expected to be technologically intelligent. For employers, this familiarity is a bonus, as young graduates come tech savvy to our office doors.
Is there a down side?
That depends…
- Do you require employees to use the technology you provide? No discussion!
- How do you handle the security of sensitive information, both your information and that of your customers?
- Are there processes in place if employees can Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)?
- Do you need to disclose to your clients if BYOD is your policy?
Downside*
- A third of those who BYOD* connect to the company’s network via WiFi. That opens the office to outside intrusion.
- Half have allowed others to use their device.
- A third of users in the corporate environment do not utilize the auto-lock feature.
- A third acknowledge that data files are not encrypted.
- Two thirds note they are not part of the company BYOD policy.
- A quarter admit to being a malware or hacker victim.
- There may be incompatibility issues (version, configuration, platforms).
On the upside, employers can reduce costs and employees get that “feel-good” sentiment.
(*US Harris Poll)