Hilltop Consultants Blog BYOD - Bring Your Own Device (COVID-19)

In these uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic, employees continue to work from home in an effort to stay safe, healthy, and socially distant. Many companies/employers have not had a chance to prepare themselves for Work From Home employees. Because of this unexpected and/or hurried transition, many people are required to BYOD - Bring Your Own Device. BYOD, while convenient, comes with risks and concerns for the employers.Data Theft: will they be using an unsecured Wi-Fi network?Malware Infiltration: could they accidentally pass along hidden malware or viruses when they download something personal onto their device? We certainly don't need any more viruses running rampant!Potential Legal Issues: if a security breach leaks crucial company information, you could have to deal with legal issues from different parties, especially if it affects your clients or partnersLoss of Device: are they following company security protocols in the event that a device gets lost or stolen and infiltrated by hackers?Lack of Employee Training: are they being fully briefed on best practices for securing company systems from their devices?Shadow IT: are they using someone other than your internal IT department for any technology issues?In an effort manage these concerns, there are BYOD policies that can be implemented:Decide which devices you are going to support.Data protection and security: decide what anti-virus, anti-spam, anti-malware you will provide for their devices.Indicate actions that will be taken if a device is lost, stolen, or broken.Discuss expectations of privacy and confidentiality.Make sure the employees know that they are expected to follow all safety laws, regulations, and common sense when using their smartphones, tablets, and computers.Make sure to address what happens when an employee leaves, or is terminated, from the company.Whatever plan works best for your company/organization, remember that your BYOD policies should be thorough and readily understood by employers and employees, for the safety and protection of everyone. For more information, see our blog about Remote Workers Using Home Computers. If you'd like to discuss specifics of your situation, please call 877-365-8324 and Hilltop Consultants will be happy to help you.