News

In today’s digital era, mobile devices have become an integral part of daily life, offering convenience and connectivity. However, this increased reliance on mobile technology has also made these devices prime targets for hackers. Merge Communications of Wellington highlights the importance of safeguarding mobile devices from potential threats. Here’s why hackers focus on mobile devices and how they can be protected.

Why Hackers Target Mobile Devices

• High Value of Data: Mobile devices store a wealth of personal and business data, including emails, contacts, financial information, and sensitive documents.

• Vulnerable Applications: Many mobile apps do not follow stringent security protocols, making them susceptible to attacks. Hackers exploit vulnerabilities in apps to gain access to devices and the data stored on them.

• Inadequate Security Measures: Often, users do not implement robust security measures on their mobile devices. Weak passwords, lack of encryption, and infrequent updates create easy entry points for hackers.

• Prevalence of Phishing Attacks: Mobile devices are frequently used for communication, making them prime targets for phishing attacks.

• Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks: Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but often lack proper security. Hackers can intercept data transmitted over these networks, gaining access to personal and business information.

CERT NZ’s recent report highlights a 66% increase in financial losses due to cybercrime in the first quarter of 2023, reflecting the significant impact of these threats on individuals and businesses in New Zealand. Phishing and credential harvesting remain the most reported incident categories, accounting for a substantial portion of the 1,968 incidents responded to by CERT NZ in this period (CERTNZ).

How to Protect Mobile Devices

Use Samsung Knox: The foremost step in protecting mobile devices is using Samsung Knox, a defence-grade mobile security solution provided by Merge Communications. Samsung Knox offers multi-layered protection, ensuring that your data remains secure against sophisticated threats.

• Strong Passwords and Biometrics: Ensure that mobile devices are secured with strong, unique passwords or biometric authentication methods such as fingerprint or facial recognition.

• Regular Updates: Keep the device’s operating system and applications updated to patch security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates where possible to ensure you are protected against the latest threats.

• App Permissions: Review the permissions requested by apps before installing them. Avoid granting unnecessary permissions that could compromise device security.

• Public Wi-Fi Caution: Avoid conducting sensitive transactions, such as online banking, over public Wi-Fi networks. Use a virtual private network (VPN) for a more secure connection.

Merge Communications is committed to helping individuals and businesses protect their mobile devices. By understanding why hackers target mobile devices and implementing Samsung Knox, it is possible to safeguard data and maintain digital security in New Zealand.

Get in touch with Merge Communications today to learn what they can do for you!

Contact Merge Communications

info@merge.nz

0800 77 55 33

www.mergecom.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

As mobile devices become integral to business operations, securing them is paramount. Implementing effective mobile security requires a strategic approach, addressing various vulnerabilities and ensuring robust protection against cyber threats. Here’s a step-by-step guide from Merge Communications, your ‘go to’ company for effective mobile security solutions.

1. Assess Your Current Security Posture

Start by evaluating the existing security measures for your mobile devices. Identify any gaps or weaknesses in your current setup. This assessment should include an inventory of all mobile devices in use, their operating systems, and any security software currently installed.

2. Develop a Comprehensive Mobile Security Policy

Create a detailed mobile security policy outlining acceptable use, security protocols, and the responsibilities of employees. This policy should cover aspects such as password requirements, encryption standards, and guidelines for accessing corporate data remotely.

3. Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solutions

Deploy an MDM solution to manage and secure all mobile devices within your organisation. MDM tools enable you to enforce security policies, remotely wipe data from lost or stolen devices, and monitor device compliance. Choose an MDM solution that fits the size and needs of your business.

4. Ensure Regular Software Updates and Patches

Keep all mobile operating systems and applications up-to-date with the latest security patches. Regular updates are crucial in protecting against known vulnerabilities and new cyber threats.

5. Educate Employees on Mobile Security Best Practices

Conduct training sessions to educate employees about mobile security risks and best practices. Emphasise the importance of recognising phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and avoiding public Wi-Fi networks for accessing sensitive information.

6. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Require multi-factor authentication for accessing corporate resources. MFA adds an extra layer of security by combining something the user knows (password) with something they have (security token or mobile device).

7. Encrypt Sensitive Data

Ensure all sensitive data stored on mobile devices is encrypted. Encryption protects data from unauthorised access, even if the device is compromised.

8. Regularly Review and Update Security Measures

Mobile security is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your security measures to address emerging threats and incorporate new technologies.

By following these steps, your business can establish a robust mobile security framework. Merge Communications emphasises that proactive security measures are essential to protect valuable data and ensure smooth operations. Implementing these practices can significantly reduce the risk of cyber attacks, keeping your business secure and competitive in the digital age.

Get in touch with Merge Communications today to learn what they can do for you!

Contact Merge Communications

info@merge.nz

0800 77 55 33

www.mergecom.co.nz

Contact Media PA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

Press Release

Merge Communications 28-5-24

Did you know that there are 5.9 million mobile phone connections in New Zealand?

While most New Zealand businesses take laptop and traditional IT hardware cyber protection seriously, mobile devices tend to be overlooked. A significant number of business mobile phones and tablets in New Zealand are not equipped with sufficient cybersecurity measures, leaving businesses vulnerable to cyber-attacks and exploitation.

Recognising the growing need for business mobile phone and tablet protection, Wellington’s Merge Communications presents Samsung Knox as protection against mobile device digital attacks. As leaders in Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions, they reinforce the importance of robust mobile device digital defence for businesses.

Mobile Phones: The Overlooked Risk in Business Security

The disparity in security measures between laptops/desktops and smartphones is stark. Many businesses, equipped with advanced security systems and tools for traditional computing devices, unwittingly leave a gaping vulnerability with mobile phones. This oversight leaves the door wide open to an array of threats, placing corporate data in jeopardy.

Motivating Businesses Toward Proactive Cybersecurity Measures

Some businesses might have delayed implementing protection for mobile devices, mistakenly thinking it to be either challenging or costly. However, the technology has advanced significantly, and there are now tools available to safeguard your mobile devices that are both simple to use and affordable.

Applying modern cybersecurity tools to your mobile devices provides robust security measures against a variety of cyber threats:

• Phishing, where hackers deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information through seemingly legitimate messages or emails,
• Malware, with malicious software installed on the device to steal data or monitor activities without the user’s knowledge,
• Spyware, a specific type of malware, clandestinely observes the user’s actions and collects personal information,
• SIM swapping attacks involve hackers transferring a victim’s phone number to a SIM card in their possession, enabling them to intercept messages and bypass security protocols,
• Lastly, network spoofing, where hackers create fake Wi-Fi networks to lure users into connecting, allows them to easily capture any data transmitted over the network.

A Cautionary Tale of Complacency

A single successful cyber-attack on a mobile device that results in data loss for a business or organisation could result in a breach of the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020, under which fines start at $10,000 per instance and have been known to be as high as $150,000.  This is without counting the brand damage caused and any other costs incurred to recover from the data breach.

Presenting Samsung Knox: An Innovative Solution for a Global Issue

Samsung Knox is an all-encompassing mobile security solution, endorsed by Merge Communications, which is designed to fortify businesses against the multifaceted mobile device cyber threats faced today. It is versatile, supporting anywhere from 20 to over 1000 connections within a company, proving it’s suitable not only for large corporates but for smaller enterprises as well. “Samsung Knox is a game-changer in the way we approach mobile security,” asserts Paul Butterworth, Managing Director of Merge Communications. “It’s about elevating our defence mechanisms, ensuring our business systems are fortified against the range of cybersecurity threats.”

Corporate Cabs, acclaimed as a “Superbrand” for two consecutive years, has chosen Samsung Knox for its mobile device management needs. Mobile phones and tablets are crucial in Corporate Cabs’ operations, requiring top-notch security, reliability, and maintenance. Samsung Knox delivers a leading-edge solution, enabling Corporate Cabs to easily manage, secure, and customise devices through a user-friendly cloud portal.

Crafting a Comprehensive Approach to Mobile Device Security

Adopting an effective mobile device security stance involves more than just technical solutions; it demands a strategic approach to mobile device security. With Samsung Knox, businesses can secure their mobile environments comprehensively, addressing everything from active device management to the secure disposal and data sanitisation of obsolete devices.

About Merge Communications

At the forefront of mobile cybersecurity, Merge Communications specialises in crafting solutions that tackle the digital age’s challenges head-on. With a focus on Mobile Device Management (MDM) and pioneering technologies like Samsung Knox, Merge Communications is dedicated to empowering businesses with the knowledge and tools needed for secure and efficient operations in today’s interconnected world.

End.

For more information, please visit www.mergecom.co.nz or contact:

 0800 77 55 33

info@merge.nz