According to mobile device management company Jamf, almost half (49%) of European companies do not have a formal ‘Bring Your Own Device’ cybersecurity policy.
Due to the surge in remote work following the pandemic and the many subsequent budget cuts, many companies have allowed employees to log into company accounts from their own devices.
Gaining access to potentially sensitive data without proper protections poses a significant risk to businesses simply due to a lack of control over how their data can be accessed.
Security flaws
The survey also shows that more than half (53%) of organizations are pursuing cost-cutting measures across IT and security. While budgets are slowly returning, many companies still have to make tough decisions about how to spend their limited cash, and expanding coverage to personally owned hardware isn’t typically seen as a priority.
Jamf’s VP of Portfolio Strategy, Michael Covington, said, “Giving employees the freedom of choice to use their own devices for work can save the organization money.” Covington added, “…the real benefit is a seamless end-user experience that eliminates the need for multiple devices and introduces streamlined productivity workflows.”
Looking ahead, two in five respondents (41%) were concerned about increasing vulnerabilities in Apple’s operating systems. While macOS accounts for only about a fifth of desktop operating systems, the company is a popular option for that business smartphoneswhich are just as good for working on the go, with iPhones accounting for a significant share of the market.
Jamf’s Covington called for the creation, sharing, and adherence to clearly documented BYOD policies as the way we work continues to evolve.
The company also suggested that a more diverse approach to device management and cybersecurity should be a priority for organizations looking to move forward, with about two-thirds (67%) relying on fewer than five vendors.
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