Mobile Security continues to be a big concern in the Middle East

Palo Alto Networks® (NYSE: PANW), the next-generation security company, discusses insights on managing risks and enabling BYOD in workplace across Middle East organisations ahead of GITEX 2015. 

Saeed Agha, General Manager, and spokesperson for Palo Alto Networks Middle East said: “Although it is known that when employees are given the resources to do their jobs more flexibly, they find better and more productive ways to work; companies continue to treat BYOD with concerns and the concerns are valid. However these concerns can be addressed through a combination of people, processes and technology”

Citing the latest report published by Aruba Networks, which puts the U.A.E. among Top 5 ‘at risk’ regions regarding mobile security, he said that nearly half of UAE workers (48 percent) admit to having lost personal or company data through the misuse of a mobile, compared with just a quarter in the U.S. (24 percent).

Start with the Network: Turning the BYOD threat into an opportunity

Agha emphasises that organisations need to be able to give users full advantage of their mobility platform of choice, without introducing additional risks to the business. “A key part of that challenge is enabling flexible mobile security options, depending on the device and use case and mobile security solutions should support different needs easily.” Agha said, adding that while there are multiple considerations to secure mobile traffic, it’s the network where the security teams must start. 

By retaining control of the network, organisations can embrace mobility by making it safe for all users in all locations, regardless of the device. 

As the next-generation security company, Palo Alto Networks recommends that organisations start their risk management strategy from this premise, making it easier to think in terms of how to make mobility work for an organization by providing the security to enable safe usage, rather than trying to prevent it.