Mobile security apps – expensive scam or actually useful?

What kind of protection do MDM and antivirus programs offer against security risks on mobile devices?

In our digitalized world, private and business data has become the new currency. For this reason, they are a popular target for hacker attacks aimed at obtaining data, reselling it, or encrypting it and releasing it only for a ransom. The damage this causes to individuals and businesses can be immense. That is why it is important that mobile devices are adequately secured.

 

The range of antivirus programs for mobile devices is huge

 

Almost every provider of antivirus software for computers also has its own antivirus app for mobile devices. The software package of a reputable provider, which seems to be practical and which is already trusted, is usually installed additionally.

However, mobile devices are fundamentally different from laptops and desktop computers. This means that mobile devices can be attacked by threats in a different way. Instead of the 'classic' computer virus, which - once installed - replicates itself and destroys the hard disk and files, other threats appear.

Even mobile devices are not immune to the installation of malware and the like. And, of course, news of ever new tricks used by attackers to get at sensitive data fuels concerns that this could also affect one's own device.

Accordingly, antivirus apps for mobile devices are experiencing a real boom.

But how useful are they really?

 

Do mobile apps for security really deliver what they promise?

 

In principle, it is only right and proper to raise people's awareness of digital security risks and how they can be countered. However, not everything that is offered is actually useful. Most mobile antivirus apps cannot actively ward off access by malicious parties. Instead, warnings on the device try to prevent users from dangerous behavior and thus prevent attackers from gaining access. As a private individual, this may be sufficient to keep the mobile device secure.

However, in an enterprise context, this is not enough.

This is why IT security specialists urgently recommend the use of additional security measures, as these are often forgotten, especially with mobile devices.
Attackers exploit this gap, which is why securing mobile devices is part of a comprehensive security strategy. This goal can be achieved primarily through a mobile device management system that is specifically designed to protect mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets from external attacks and to fend them off, and not just leave it at a mere warning.
Find out what important features an MDM should have here: Looking for an MDM?
Basically, of course, you need to look for a mobile device management solution that meets the needs, budget and usability requirements. Don't be put off by prices that are too low, but select specifically what fits your security strategy. Our FAQs on MDM can help you here.

Learn all about:
... how to integrate an MDM into your company
... how to adapt an MDM to the needs of your company
... how an MDM helps to secure your company's data
... what
costs an MDM entails

 

Find out what mobile security apps can really do and which threats affect mobile devices in our infopaper!