According to estimates by the German Association for Information Technology, Telecommunications and New Media, around 21.4 million smartphones will be sold in 2023. Around 62.6 million Germans own at least one device. As a statistical analysis from last year showed, around 60 percent of all permanent employees use a mobile device with Internet access, and a large proportion use them both privately and professionally. Mobility and flexibility in the workplace are virtually unimaginable today; mobile devices have become indispensable tools. Smartphones, tablets and laptops allow us to work from anywhere and stay constantly connected with our colleagues and customers. But while these technological advances undoubtedly bring benefits, they also pose significant risks to enterprise security. Hacking attacks on mobile devices have become a serious threat, and it's high time to raise awareness in this area.

The threat of hacking attacks on mobile devices

Mobile devices are extremely attractive to hackers. They are constantly connected to the Internet, store a wealth of sensitive information and are often inadequately protected. This makes them an ideal gateway for cybercriminals. From phishing attacks to malware infections to targeted attacks on businesses, the threats are diverse and ever-changing. One particularly worrying trend is the increase in attacks on BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) environments, where employees use their personal devices for work. Here, the boundaries between professional and private use are blurring, further increasing security risks.

Raising awareness: The key to corporate security

To effectively protect against hacking attacks on mobile devices, it is critical to increase awareness at all levels. This can be done with these steps, for example:

  • Training and awareness
    Companies should conduct training and awareness campaigns to educate employees about the risks and teach them how to protect themselves. This should be done regularly and systematically.
  • Guidelines and security measures
    It is essential to establish and enforce clear policies for the use of mobile devices in the workplace. These include password policies, software updates and the installation of antivirus software.
  • Mobile Device Management (MDM)
    MDM solutions enable organizations to centrally manage mobile devices and enforce security policies. They also provide the ability to lock or wipe lost or stolen devices.
  • Encryption and secure authentication
    Encrypting data on mobile devices and implementing secure authentication methods such as biometric recognition or two-factor authentication are critical to protecting access to sensitive information.

Prevention instead of reaction

When companies and employees are aware of the risks, they can take proactive steps to ensure corporate security. A combination of training, policies, technology, and continuous threat monitoring can help companies stay ahead of the curve. Digital courses such as our e-learnings also help employees stay aware of potential threats.