Inspire Success

Tablet computers or tablets as they are often called, are becoming more and more popular as the top choice for portable computers. Given most tablets connect to corporate and cloud servers, they are particularly dangerous if someone gets unauthorised access. The good news is that manufacturers use a lot of security features in their design of tablet computers and the use of locked own apps makes them less prone to viruses.  A tablet is bigger than a smartphone but typically much smaller and lighter than a laptop. Both smartphones and tablets are easily lost or stolen, with theft a particular concern when it comes to tablets due to their current "it" status. Here are our Top 7 Tips to keep your tablet computer secure:-

1. Turn on passkeys – all tablet devices have passkeys so you can have a PIN number before logging on. On most of the systems you can set the tablet to wipe itself if the wrong pin is used too many times;
2. Encryption – encryption is very important and on tablet computers its either set up automatically (on the Apple iPad for example) or is easy to enable on Windows and Google Android devices;
3. Tracking and wiping – most mobile devices now come with built in tracking services that let you monitor where the tablet computer is. Many will allow you to wipe the tablet remotely if it has been lost or stolen;
4. Keep the tablet  close at hand at all times - Don't leave your tablet computer even for a minute;
5. Invest in a security cable - most portable computers come with a universal security slot that allows a reinforced steel security cable to be fitted. Whenever you sit down with the tablet computer for an extended period you can secure it to a table leg or similar that makes it difficult for a thief to steal it;
6. Use a Smart Card - your tablet device may have come with a Smart Card, or you can buy one that fits into a card slot. Smart Card technology ensures that if somebody tries to turn on your tablet device and doesn't insert the card, the device won't complete the boot sequence;
7. Communicate Employee Responsibility for the Tablet - a clearly written and communicated policy that states the employee's responsibility for the tablet computer can significantly reduce the risk of theft, if only by increasing the employee's risk awareness. While the details of employee responsibility and liability will vary greatly from company to company you should have a policy in place that spells out the risks of tablet computer theft, the responsibility of the user and the liability of the user.

Is this something that could be an issue at your place? Inspire Success is all about implementing practical solutions that help create high performing workplaces which are customer focussed and free of conflict - no matter what size your business is. Contact Inspire Success for further information raephillips@inspire-success.com