Mobile Device Management: The Growing Threat to Mobile Security

Source: Risk management and mobile devices | Security Magazine

As mobile devices become increasingly integral to our daily work and lives, they are also emerging as a prime target for cyberattacks. Jim Coyle, US Public Sector Chief Technology Officer at Lookout, sheds light on the growing risks mobile devices pose to organizations, especially since the start of remote work during the pandemic. In a recent podcast with Security Magazine, he outlined how attackers are exploiting the lack of traditional security controls on mobile devices, using them as an entry point for sophisticated cyberattacks.

Why Mobile Devices are Vulnerable

Mobile devices have seen an 85% year-over-year increase in attacks since 2011. This sharp rise is largely driven by the shift to remote work, where employees rely on personal devices for tasks such as logging into corporate networks, accessing emails, and using collaboration tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams. While multifactor authentication (MFA) apps on mobile devices provide a layer of security, they also open the door to new vulnerabilities.

Traditional security solutions often fail to account for the risks unique to mobile devices, leaving gaps in protection. Phishing attacks, malware, and advanced exploitation techniques can bypass defenses and infiltrate mobile operating systems, apps, and even SMS messages. Attackers can now exploit these devices with little to no user interaction, making mobile devices the low-hanging fruit for cybercriminals.

The Need for Proactive Mobile Defense

Coyle emphasized that relying solely on Mobile Device Management (MDM) software is not enough to secure mobile devices. Instead, organizations need to adopt Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) solutions that work alongside MDM. These tools can detect and prevent hardware, network, and application-based threats. Without this added layer of security, organizations leave themselves vulnerable to zero-click attacks, phishing campaigns, and even advanced state-sponsored attacks.

Best Practices for Mobile Security

To mitigate the risks associated with mobile devices, a combined approach is recommended, that includes:

 MDM solutions integrated with MTD software.

 A vulnerability management lifecycle for mobile devices, ensuring operating systems and applications are always up to date.

 Proactive threat hunting and logging into SIEM or XDR systems to identify and mitigate threats in real-time.

As an MSP specialized in Cloud Services, Cyber Security, and Network Management, CSG Technologies can help organizations strengthen their mobile security posture. We provide comprehensive mobile device management services. Our team ensures your devices are protected from the latest threats, allowing your business to operate securely, no matter where your employees are working from. Let CSG Technologies help you safeguard your mobile devices and reduce your exposure to cyber risks.

By taking a proactive approach, your organization can avoid costly breaches and keep your sensitive data secure, whether on desktops or mobile devices.