Mobile Device Policies

Companies are increasingly allowing their employees to use their own personal mobile devices, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, to remotely access work resources.

This “bring your own device” trend can present certain security and privacy risks for companies, especially in regulated industries where different types of data require different levels of security. At the same time, companies need to also be mindful of employee privacy laws.

Most individuals now have personal mobile devices, and companies are finding it increasingly convenient to allow employees (and in certain situations, independent contractors) to access company data and networks through these personally owned devices. However, when an organization agrees to allow employees to use their own personal devices for company business, it loses control over the hardware and how it is used. This creates security and privacy risks with regards to the proprietary and confidential company information stored or accessible on those devices, which can lead to potential legal and liability risk. Similarly, when employees use the same device for both personal and professional use, determining the line between the two becomes difficult. If your company is considering letting its employees use their personal devices in the workplace, you should consult with an attorney to craft a policy that’s right for your business.