Since 2020, remote and hybrid workplaces have become nearly as prevalent as traditional onsite work environments. According to the US Census Bureau, the number of individuals working remotely tripled between 2019 and 2021. While some companies have started to mandate a return to physical offices, remote and hybrid work setups seem to be enduring. As of 2023, 12.7% of full-time employees work remotely, while 28.2% operate in a hybrid model. Consequently, the use of personal mobile devices for work has become widespread, with 87% of companies relying on them for accessing company apps and 60% of employees utilizing such apps for work-related tasks. However, this increased reliance on mobile devices has also led to a rise in data security issues, particularly when these devices are lost, misplaced, or stolen.
For instance, research indicates that 41% of all data breaches stem from lost or stolen devices. Notably, in the healthcare sector, where vulnerabilities to cyberattacks are particularly acute, a staggering 68% of data breaches result from lost or stolen devices. In 2023, a survey found that 75% of respondents experienced a significant uptick in security incidents, with lost or stolen devices being a primary concern alongside stolen credentials, ransomware, and DDoS attacks.
The transition to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic initially led to a decline in device-related security risks, as people predominantly stayed at home with their devices. However, as the world adjusts to post-pandemic conditions, with a resurgence in in-person business activities and travel, the likelihood of devices being lost, misplaced, or stolen has increased substantially.
The main reasons for device loss are typically misplacement rather than theft. Studies show that a significant portion of misplaced device events occur in private or personal settings, such as the user’s car or during private events. Additionally, while theft is less common, it still occurs frequently, with homes being the most common location for device theft.
To safeguard organizations from the risks associated with compromised devices, several measures can be taken:
- Implement strong passwords or passcodes to restrict device access.
- Utilize biometric authentication features like Face ID or Touch ID where available.
- Activate device tracking features such as “Find My” to locate, lock, or erase lost or stolen devices remotely.
- Regularly back up data to secure cloud services or external drives.
- Encrypt data on devices and backups.
- Install anti-theft and antivirus software, ensuring regular updates.
- Avoid connecting work devices to public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and use a VPN for online browsing.
- Enable Stolen Device Protection features where applicable, such as iOS 17.3 or later.
Managing devices within an organization can be challenging, but it is crucial for mitigating risks associated with lost or stolen devices. UDT offers Lifecycle Management support and Cybersecurity Services to assist organizations in addressing these challenges effectively.
Contact our team today to explore how UDT can support your organization in managing devices, optimizing technology investments, and enhancing data security through customizable solutions.
