MDM Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Mobile Workforce

For businesses with 10 to 300 employees, especially those in regulated sectors like financial services or healthcare, implementing the right mobile security strategy is essential. This article explores MDM cybersecurity, comparing MDM and MAM approaches, and offers practical advice for securing your mobile workforce.

Mobile Security Management Overview

Let's clarify MDM vs. MAM:

• Mobile Device Management (MDM) provides comprehensive control over mobile devices in an organization. It typically involves installing software on devices, allowing IT administrators to manage various aspects of device functionality and security.
• Mobile Application Management (MAM) focuses on securing specific applications rather than entire devices. This approach is often less intrusive and easier to implement, especially for Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) scenarios.

Both MDM and MAM address mobile-specific cyber risks, prevent data breaches, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain organizational security.

Selecting MAM or MDM for Cybersecurity

When choosing between MAM and MDM, consider these factors:

MAM: The Recommended Option -- for most clients of our Virtual CISO Service, MAM is preferable due to its ease of installation and less intrusive nature. It's particularly suitable when:

• Remote wipe capabilities aren't necessary for the entire phone, but just for corporate data
• You're targeting specific business applications, most commonly tools like Outlook, SharePoint, Gmail, etc.
• You have a BYOD policy and prioritize employee privacy

MDM: For Comprehensive Control -- MDM becomes necessary when you need:

• Remote FULL wipe for lost or stolen devices
• Complete device settings and configuration control
• To meet strict compliance requirements

For Microsoft 365 users, InTune is a versatile solution supporting both MDM and MAM functionalities. It's particularly useful for implementing Conditional Access policies, which can block email downloads to native mail apps and ensure only protected apps access corporate data.

For Google Workspace users, MDM and MAM features are built right into the product.

Key Mobile Security Features

Look for these essential features in MAM or MDM solutions:

1. Device Encryption: Protect all devices to safeguard data if lost or stolen.
2. Strong Password Policies: Require complex passwords or PINs. For mobile devices, mandate at least six characters, with FaceID and thumbprint as acceptable alternatives.
3. Operating System Control: Limit OS versions, typically supporting the current release and one previous version.
4. Remote Lock and Wipe: For MDM solutions, include the ability to remotely lock or wipe devices when necessary.
5. App Management: Control app installation and interaction with corporate data.
6. Conditional Access: Restrict corporate resource access based on device status and user identity.

MDM Cybersecurity for SMBs

Implement mobile security in your small or medium-sized business with this approach:

1. Evaluate Your Requirements: Consider your industry, regulations, and workforce habits.
2. Select Your Method: Choose between MAM and MDM based on your assessment. Remember, MAM is often sufficient and less intrusive for many scenarios.
3. Pick a Solution: For Microsoft 365 users, InTune is a solid choice as it supports both MAM and MDM cybersecurity. Other vendors offer tailored solutions for different needs and budgets.
4. Plan Implementation: Develop a phased rollout, starting with critical applications or high-risk users.
5. Train Your Staff: Educate employees on new policies and procedures for smooth adoption.

Mobile Security Best Practices

Enhance your mobile security with these practices:

1. Use Strong Passwords: Require at least six characters for mobile devices, with complexity rules. Allow FaceID and thumbprint as alternatives.
2. Prevent Jailbroken/Rooted Devices: Block these vulnerable devices from accessing corporate resources.
3. Require Encryption: Ensure all devices accessing company data are encrypted.
4. Review Policies Regularly: Update your policies to address new threats.
5. Monitor and Report: Use your MAM or MDM cybersecurity solution's reporting features to track compliance and identify issues.

Challenges to Consider

Be aware of these potential hurdles:

• BYOD Policies: Balance security needs with employee privacy. MAM often provides a good middle ground.
• Compliance in BYOD Scenarios: Implementing strict controls like NIST 800-171 on personal devices can be challenging and may raise privacy concerns. For handling sensitive data or meeting stringent compliance requirements like NIST 800-171, consider providing company-owned devices.
• User Resistance: Some employees may resist perceived intrusive controls. Clear communication about security measure importance can help.
• Threat Landscape: Mobile threats evolve quickly. Regular training and policy updates are key.

Compliance and Regulations

For many businesses, compliance drives mobile security decisions:

• SEC Guidance: The Securities and Exchange Commission stresses the need for mobile device controls, particularly in financial services.
• SOC2 Compliance: Service organizations often need to demonstrate robust mobile security measures. This includes mandating encryption, blocking jailbroken devices, and requiring strong passwords.
• NIST 800-171: Government contractors may need stringent controls to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Full implementation on personal devices can be challenging, so company-owned devices might be more practical for these scenarios.

Platform-Specific Approaches

Different mobile platforms require tailored strategies:

• iOS Devices: Apple's built-in security features simplify management, but MDM cybersecurity remains crucial for enforcing corporate policies. While Apple's iCloud site offers some features similar to MDM, we still highly recommend that companies implement a solution they control.
• Android Devices: The open nature of Android requires more active management. Google's Device Policy App is essential for enforcing MDM cybersecurity policies on Android devices. This app should prompt for installation when syncing a Google account.
• Windows and Mac Laptops: These devices often contain sensitive data and require robust MDM solutions with features like BitLocker for Windows and FileVault for Macs.

Closing Thoughts

Whether you opt for MAM or MDM, implement a solution that fits your needs, meets regulations, and protects your data. For many organizations, MAM provides a good balance of security and user privacy, especially in BYOD scenarios. However, when remote wipe capabilities or stringent compliance requirements are necessary, MDM cybersecurity becomes essential.

Remember that mobile security requires ongoing attention. Regular reviews, updates, and employee training maintain a strong security posture.

By proactively addressing mobile security, you protect your data and safeguard your business's future. Take time to assess your needs, choose the right solution (whether it's MAM, MDM, or a combination using a tool like InTune), and implement strong mobile security practices. Your business will benefit from enhanced protection and peace of mind.

If you're unsure about which approach is best for your organization, or if you need help implementing and managing your mobile security strategy, consider reaching out to a team of experts. At Adelia Risk, we offer Virtual CISO services that can guide you through every step of this process, from initial assessment to ongoing management and compliance.