Many employers now have a 'bring your own device' (BYOD) policy, allowing employees access to company resources and data on their personal devices. The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) points out that smartphones are revolutionising how millions of us go online each day. We use them to make calls, send texts, check emails and run an ever-growing number of applications. But these devices may also carry some risks. Should the smartphone fall into the wrong hands, it is a potential treasure trove of information. If a rogue application is downloaded, it’s even possible for hackers to hijack the phone while still in the owner’s possession. Given the security risk the ICO has issued a guide, Safer smartphones – a guide to keeping your device secure, developed with Ofcom, the Office of Fair Trading and PhonepayPlus. The guide sets out nine principles for safer use, which employers are advised to incorporate into BYOD policies, communicate to staff and require compliance during BYOD usage.

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