NZ businesses face urgent mobile cybersecurity gaps

Businesses in New Zealand are facing a critical gap in their cybersecurity measures, potentially exposing themselves to significant risks, according to a recent spotlight by Merge Communications. While there are 5.9 million mobile phone connections in the country, a considerable number of business devices lack adequate cybersecurity, presenting a major vulnerability.

Most companies in New Zealand are diligent in safeguarding laptops and traditional IT hardware. However, they often overlook mobile devices, which remain susceptible to various cyber threats. Recognising this vulnerability, Merge Communications, a leader in Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions, advocates for robust mobile device protection and introduces Samsung Knox as a comprehensive security solution.

The disparity in security measures between laptops/desktops and smartphones is striking. Businesses often employ advanced security systems to protect traditional computing devices but fail to extend the same protections to mobile phones. This oversight leaves corporate data at severe risk of hacking, phishing, malware, spyware, and other cyber threats.

One significant reason for this gap is a common misconception among businesses that mobile device protection is complex or expensive. However, technology has advanced, and the tools available today are both user-friendly and cost-effective. Modern cybersecurity tools can safeguard mobile devices against a range of cyber threats, including phishing, malware, spyware, SIM swapping attacks, and network spoofing. These threats can have dire consequences, compromising sensitive business data and potentially leading to severe financial and reputational damage.

A single successful cyber-attack on a mobile device could result in a breach of the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020, which carries fines starting at NZD $10,000 and can escalate up to NZD $150,000 per instance. Alongside these fines, businesses must also consider the brand damage and additional costs associated with recovering from such data breaches.

To address these challenges, Merge Communications endorses Samsung Knox, an all-encompassing mobile security solution designed to protect businesses against diverse mobile cyber threats. Samsung Knox supports a range of companies, from large corporates to smaller enterprises, with the capability to manage 20 to over 1,000 connections. Paul Butterworth, Managing Director of Merge Communications, stated, "Samsung Knox is a game-changer in the way we approach mobile security. It’s about elevating our defence mechanisms, ensuring our business systems are fortified against the range of cybersecurity threats."

An example of Samsung Knox’s practical application is seen in Corporate Cabs, a company that has won the "Superbrand" accolade for two consecutive years. As operational mobile phones and tablets are essential to Corporate Cabs, top-tier security, reliability, and maintenance are crucial. Samsung Knox meets these needs, allowing Corporate Cabs to manage, secure, and customise its devices efficiently through a user-friendly cloud portal.

Implementing a comprehensive mobile device security strategy involves more than adopting technical solutions. It requires a strategic approach that encompasses all aspects of mobile device security, from active device management to secure disposal and data sanitisation of obsolete devices. With Samsung Knox, businesses can address these aspects and maintain a secure mobile environment.

Merge Communications continues to lead in mobile cybersecurity, focusing on MDM solutions and pioneering technologies like Samsung Knox. Their commitment to empowering businesses with the necessary knowledge and tools ensures secure and efficient operations in today’s interconnected world. As more companies recognise the importance of protecting mobile devices, adopting such comprehensive security solutions will become increasingly crucial in mitigating risks and safeguarding business operations.