Even though the IT industry buzzes with talk of the wonders of wireless, mobile computing isn't going to replace the corporate desktop anytime soon. However, that doesn't mean your organisation shouldn't start preparing to embrace elements of wireless technology.
For example, PDAs are among the hottest and most requested services among busy executives. While these devices can help boost productivity, they also introduce a significant — but manageable — risk to the security of any network.
The most common PDAs run Palm OS, Microsoft Windows CE, and Java-compatible platforms. But unlike earlier PDAs, these devices do more than just take notes; they also provide wireless links to office email and file servers, making your corporate data all the more vulnerable.
Unfortunately, many organisations overlook this growing vulnerability. It's important to be aware that attackers have written and deployed several hacks and viruses to take advantage of the general lack of security measures implemented during the deployment of these devices. Let's look at how your organisation can lock down its mobile devices against would-be attackers.
When it comes to mobile security, perhaps the most important security measure you can apply is common business sense. Start by asking this question: "Is there a business justification tied to the deployment of these PDAs?"
If no one can present a true business justification, then there should be no IT support for such devices. You should then treat these PDAs as unauthorised devices and take steps to prevent users from installing these rogue devices on the network.
Of course, there may be a strong business justification for allowing PDAs on your network. If so, your next step is to implement additional security measures to help protect these mobile devices. On the next page we look at some of your best bets.
