Recently, the Verizon Business 2024 Mobile Security Index revealed a rising trend of cybersecurity threats linked to increased usage of mobile and IoT devices by employees. The report, surveying 600 professionals responsible for security strategy, highlighted the significant role of mobile and IoT devices in today’s business operations. With remote work becoming more prevalent, these devices bring new security concerns.
Eighty percent of respondents emphasized the importance of mobile devices for their business functionality, and a staggering 95% reported active use of IoT devices. In critical infrastructure sectors, 96% of participants confirmed their reliance on IoT devices, with 53% experiencing severe security incidents that resulted in data loss or system downtime.
Phil Hochmuth, Research VP of enterprise mobility at IDC, remarked, “These findings highlight the continued friction that employers face as more and more work is done on personal mobile devices. This is why we are seeing more and more employers move from a pure bring-your-own-device model to employer-provided devices where CIOs can have greater governance to protect critical infrastructure from cyber attacks.”
Respondents revealed increased investment in mobile device security, with 84% boosting their spending over the past year. Among those in critical infrastructure, 89% are planning further increases. The report also pointed to the dual nature of AI in this evolving landscape. While AI can exacerbate threats through methods like deepfakes and SMS phishing, it also presents significant opportunities for defense. Seventy-seven percent of respondents foresee AI-assisted attacks succeeding, whereas 88% acknowledged the mounting importance of AI in cybersecurity solutions.
With the growing deployment of IoT devices, digital landscapes are transforming. This evolution demands corresponding advancements in cybersecurity strategies. TJ Fox, SVP of Industrial IoT and Automotive at Verizon Business, noted, “The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is giving rise to a massive expansion in mobile device technology that goes well beyond phones, tablets and laptops. Enterprise networks now include all sorts of sensors and purpose-built devices that monitor, measure, manage and control commercial tasks and data flow.”
The cybersecurity landscape reflects a constant arms race between security firms and cybercriminals, particularly with advancements in AI and quantum computing. Analysts stress the importance of utilizing these technologies for both defensive and offensive measures. Earlier this year, the UK government introduced new regulations mandating minimum-security standards for internet-connected smart devices. This move aims to prevent incidents similar to the Mirai attack in 2016, which compromised 300,000 devices, leading to significant disruptions.
The increased use of mobile and IoT devices underscores the need for robust, adaptable cybersecurity measures. As businesses continue to integrate these technologies, ensuring their secure deployment remains paramount.
