Health IT Security

Health IT Security

            Health IT Security Bring your own device (BYOD) has become the routine in most organizations as employers seek creative ways to increase the flexibility and productivity of workers. However, although BYOD creates numerous benefits for employees and organizations, the practice introduces various security risks. These risks relate to data leakage or loss and unauthorized data access. First, personal mobile devices are highly susceptible to attacks and eavesdropping. These risks result from the failure to update the device’s operating system, antivirus, security patches and applications regularly. Therefore, the confidential information sent using such devices could be intercepted and decrypted easily. Furthermore, a hacker can easily install a malicious application in the unsecured phone and use the application to sniff, alter or steal confidential information (Garba, Armarego, Murray & Kenworthy, 2015). Secondly, phones, tablets and laptops get lost or stolen easily. Consequently, sensitive information is lost or compromised. Thirdly, third parties such as spouses, siblings and friends can access one’s mobile device easily. The inappropriate use of the device by the third parties introduces the risks of security breaches, accidental or intention deleting of confidential information and installation of malicious applications.        

            An individual can implement several measures to address the security issues associated with BYOD. First, I would implement various procedures to secure my device. The procedures would include the installation of MAM, EMM and DLP software (Keyes, 2016). Furthermore, I would ensure to update my device’s operating systems, security patches, browsers, applications and antivirus software regularly. Secondly, according to Mottl (2015), I would engage in ongoing research on the current and emerging BYOD security threats and the effective strategies that I can apply to prevent potential threats within and outside the workplace.

References

Garba, A. B., Armarego, J., Murray, D., & Kenworthy, W. (2015). Review of the Information

            Security and Privacy Challenges in Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Environments.

            Journal of Information Privacy and Security, 11(1), 38-54.

            doi:10.1080/15536548.2015.1010985.

Keyes, J. (2016). Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD) Survival Guide. Boca Raton: CRC Press.

Mottl, J. (2015). How to ensure BYOD doesn’t put health data at risk. Retrieved from