The Cyber Risks of BYOD
Bringing your own device (BYOD) to work policies may be convenient, but it could be putting your entire company’s cybersecurity at risk.
As hybrid and in-office work become the standard (with fully remote setups becoming less common outside of the tech sector), BYOD policies mean more employees are using their own tablets, laptops, and smartphones in the workplace than ever before.
The convenience and familiarity of personal devices are undeniable, but without proper security protocols, BYOD can expose businesses to significant risks. Unpatched operating systems, weak passwords, and unmonitored devices all create opportunities for cybercriminals. Sensitive customer data, confidential files, and business-critical applications are especially vulnerable.
That’s why Soteria Cloud, powered by Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, offers a smarter way to safeguard against BYOD risks. Our partnership with Acronis delivers an integrated platform that combines backup, disaster recovery, advanced cybersecurity, endpoint management, and secure cloud storage – all at scale.
For resellers and partners, this means streamlined operations, powerful automation, and margin protection. For businesses, it means market-leading security and peace of mind.
Why BYOD poses unique cybersecurity risks
The dangers of using personal devices in the workplace were highlighted in the recent KnowBe4 Africa Human Risk Management report, which found that up to 70% of devices in offices across Africa are inadequately secured.
This is especially concerning in the wake of the surge in cyberattacks across South Africa. The reality is simple: personal devices can no longer be assumed to be safe.
Here are just some of the ways hackers exploit BYOD to infiltrate company networks:
- Out-of-date operating systems, including Windows and macOS.
- Lack of enterprise-grade cybersecurity or secure cloud storage software.
- Failure to activate multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Mixing personal and business email or messaging accounts, which widens the attack surface for phishing and social engineering scams.
If your company allows BYOD, a formal cybersecurity policy for personal devices is no longer optional—it’s essential.
How to Keep Your Company Safe Online in the Age of BYOD
While BYOD offers flexibility and productivity benefits, companies must take proactive measures to stay secure. Here’s a cybersecurity readiness and BYOD checklist every organisation should follow:
1. A formal BYOD policy
Establish clear rules on how personal devices may be used for work, including restrictions on apps, data sharing, and access to sensitive systems.
2. Regular software updates
Ensure all devices are updated with the latest operating system patches, apps, and security tools. Even one unpatched device can expose the whole network.
3. Cybersecurity software audits
Only allow devices with approved endpoint protection and secure cloud storage solutions to connect to company systems. Enterprise-grade tools are far more effective than free consumer apps.
4. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Require MFA for all company accounts and sensitive data access. It’s one of the simplest and most effective defenses against breaches.
5. Secure communication channels
Keep personal and business accounts separate. Provide employees with company-approved email, messaging, and file-sharing tools.
6. Cybersecurity awareness training
Educate staff on spotting phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and following safe browsing practices. Human error is still the biggest cyber risk.
7. Regular monitoring
Implement monitoring tools to flag unusual activity and carry out periodic device audits. Proactive oversight helps identify risks before they escalate.
Safeguard your onsite devices with Total Data Protection
With employees bringing multiple devices into the office, a comprehensive cybersecurity solution is the only realistic way to keep your business safe.
Soteria Cloud’s Total Data Protection, powered by Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, gives your organisation the ability to:
- Protect all endpoints—whether personal or company-issued.
- Automate backups and disaster recovery for business continuity.
- Deploy enterprise-grade cybersecurity that neutralises modern threats.
- Streamline IT operations with advanced monitoring and integrations.
No matter how many users you need to support, we’ll help you power up your cyber defenses and keep your data secure.
👉 Click below to learn more about Total Data Protection.