New England Data Services Blog

Information Security: A Cause for Concern for Blackberry Users

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     Recent promotions, their sleek stylish designs, and the every present desire for innovative technology have made smart phones, especially Blackberrys, a commonly used device in today's workforce. These devices can barely be referred to as merely a cell phone these days given the extensive amount of applications available. Email, music, Facebook, and live streaming video are just a few of the features available that make this phone more of a personal computer than a means of communication. This poses numerous security threats that most Blackberry users neglect to realize. Because of the constant danger of having your private information exposed to the World Wide Web, firewalls have become one of the strongest lines of defense for internet users. The fact that Blackberrys are currently not equip with protection such as firewalls, such commonly used requests as shopping online, opening attachments on emails, and checking your bank account online from your Blackberry can be extremely dangerous. Currently, the perception that your smart phone can be infected by viruses and malware is overlooked. But as these devices become more popular, the financial motives of internet predators also increases, making the threat of your information being stolen more of a reality than ever before.

     Other privacy concerns can be related to the constant use of Blackberrys on-the-go. Responding to work emails, making important business related phone calls are commonly done outside the office simply because you can. However, you never know who's listening to those calls or who's looking over your shoulder when you type in your account name and password. My point here is that it doesn't take a virus to steal your information, but even a nosey person sitting next to you on the subway can have access to some of your most personal information if you're not careful. So here's a few tips for those who think they don't have anything to worry about:

• 1.) Be discreet. While commuting is one of the most boring parts of the day, it's not the ideal place for business practices. Wait until you get to work whenever possible so you don't have to look over your shoulder when checking your email.
• 2.) Keep it on you. Duh. Your information isn't really safe if your Blackberry's laying on your table at a restaurant while you're on the can.
• 3.) Keep a back up (if possible). Yeah these things aren't cheap, but for most if they lose their Blackberry, it can mean losing a lot more than just a cool toy.
• 4.) Use encryption. On most Blackberry devices the feature is there, however most people don't realize it and never turn it on.                                         
• My previous blog regarding the Massachusetts Privacy Laws is an example of the measures being taken to secure private information on personal computers. It would appear that the next appropriate step in privacy protection will have to address the private information being passed outside the workplace.