Cybersecurity Risks of Using Personal Devices for Work

In today’s digital age, the line between personal and professional life is increasingly blurred. Many employees use their personal devices for work-related tasks, a practice commonly known as “bring your own device” (BYOD). However, while BYOD offers convenience and flexibility, it can also introduce new cybersecurity risks or exacerbate existing exposures.

How Using Personal Devices Can Be Risky

Your business should carefully assess potential dangers of allowing employees to use personal devices for work, such as the following:

• Lack of security controls—Personal devices often lack the robust security measures found on corporate devices. This includes advanced firewalls, antivirus software and regular security updates. Without these protections, personal devices are more vulnerable to malware, phishing attacks and other cyber threats.

• Physical theft—When personal devices are used for work, sensitive company data can be exposed through burglary, robbery and theft. If personal devices not secured in your business’s offices are lost or stolen, confidential information can easily fall into the wrong hands.

• Unsecured networks—Employees may use their personal devices on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, which are prime targets for cybercriminals. These networks can be easily intercepted, allowing attackers to access sensitive information transmitted over them.

5 Ways to Protect Against Cybersecurity Risks for Personal Devices

Now that your business understands the various risks and exposures associated with BYOD, you’re ready to take the following steps:

1. Require strong passwords and multifactor authentication (MFA). Instruct employees to use complex passwords and enable MFA to add an extra layer of security. This makes it harder for unauthorized users to access devices and data.
2. Update software regularly. Ensure employees keep devices’ operating systems and applications up to date. Software updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.
3. Establish virtual private networks (VPNs). A VPN encrypts employees’ internet connections, making devices more secure when accessing company resources over public or unsecured networks.
4. Provide security software. Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to protect employees’ personal devices from malicious attacks.
5. Secure insurance. Cyber liability insurance can play a critical role in your business’s loss control measures, potentially limiting out-of-pocket consequences following data breaches, including those involving personal devices used for business.

We’re Here to Help

Contact Legacy Insurance today to learn more about cybersecurity practices and ensure you’re covered against potential incidents.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.