‘Many organisations compromising on mobile security’

PUNE: The third annual Verizon Mobile Security Index, which was released recently, revealed that a large number of organisations are still compromising on mobile security to get things done, which can leave entities at risk.

It was also revealed that about four out of 10 respondents (43 per cent) reported their organisations had sacrificed on mobile security in the past year. Those that did were twice as likely to suffer a compromise.

The study also found that 39 per cent of respondents reported having a mobile-security-related compromise. Sixty-six per cent of organisations that suffered a compromise called the impact ‘major,’ and 55 per cent said the compromise they experienced had lasting repercussions.

Speaking on the findings, Executive Director, Global Security Services with Verizon, Bryan Sartin, said, “In today’s world, mobile connectivity is more important than ever. Organisations of all sizes and in all industries rely on mobile devices to run much of their day-to-day operations, so mobile security is a priority.”

“The types of devices, diverse applications and further emergence of IoT devices further complicate security. Everyone has to be deliberate and diligent about mobile security to protect themselves and their customers,” Sartin added.

The findings, which are based on a survey of more than 850 professionals responsible for buying, managing and securing mobile and IoT devices, also revealed that 20 per cent of organisations that suffered a mobile compromise, said that a rogue or insecure Wi-Fi hotspot was involved. 

Similarly, 31 per cent of those surveyed admitted to having suffered a compromise involving an IoT device and 84 per cent of organisations said that their reliance on data stored in the cloud is growing.