Inet Computer Education 101 WebBlog

Personal digital assistants (PDAs)- such as the Palm, iPAQ and Blackberry-and other mobile devices have quickly become indispensable corporate tools. They are ubiquitous-and vulnerable.

Your PDA needs security. How much? That depends on how you use it. PDAs are often as powerful as some computers, they can store megabytes of data, and they pose many of the same security risks as PCs. They should be secured just like full-size computers.

In the past a PDA communicated only by synchronizing with a PC on a local port. Nowadays, many PDAs have full wireless capability that can be used to send and receive –mail and txt messages just like desktop computers. If that data is confidential, secure it.

If your PDA was issued to you by the company, it is corporate property, to b used primarily for business purposes. If you use it for personal purposes, remember that management has the right to inspect it a any time. Don’t expect any personal privacy.

In addition, realize that the company issued the PDA for your use only and you shouldn’t lend it to others. If you do, you can’t control how they will use it or any confidential data on it.

Mobile devices allow us to take information wherever we go. But their portability makes them a popular target for thieves. Physical security is paramount, since a PDA can disappear in an instant. Be careful where you store your PDA. When you are away from your desk, either lick it or keep it with you.

The main threat to the sensitive data stored on your PDA is physical loss of the device. If you ever lose it, good security on it will ensure that no one can access the confidential data. If like most people, you store personal information on your PDA, good security will also ensure that no one can use the data to steal your identity, use your credit cards, or open your files.

Her are some things to keep in mind with your PDA: 

Think big when you go small: PDAs require just as much security as full-size PCs. Store it carefully. Lock it or keep it with you at all times.

Use passwords and encryption on your PDA when possible: if you lose it or it’s stolen, you can still keep others from accessing any confidential data and any personal information.

Use wireless security when sending confidential data: PDAs can b even more vulnerable than desktop computers when sending and receiving e-mail and txt messages Use you PDA care fully. If you don’t need the wireless connectivity of your PDA, disable the auto connection feature. This ensures that your wireless device doesn’t connect to the network unless you want to connect.