Threats against device mount, but history helps

For all their productivity and efficiency benefits, mobile devices can also present numerous data security concerns for end-users and enterprises alike, according to a recent CSO report.

The same spam-wielding botnets and malware that constantly plague desktop web users will one day make their way onto mobile devices, according to the report. But users and security professionals alike should take history into account to protect smartphones and tablets.

Mobile devices and computers are adopting similar strategies, the report stated. Smartphones and tablets now, much like computers and laptops back in the 1990s, face increasing threats as technology advances and internet connection speeds increase.

By learning from how the problem was handled for computers, security professionals can better protect mobile devices and enhance mobile device management along the way, CSO reported.

The security of data stored on smartphones and tablets, as well as transmitted by the devices, remains a top enterprise mobility concern for most companies. In fact, an IT Pro report published in July ranked mobile security as the No. 7 concern for companies when it comes to protecting confidential information.