Data Backup and Your Mobile Devices: Tips for Reducing Risks

Mobile device management (MDM) strategies should cover an integral component that too many organizations fail to address – backup solutions. Often, organizations have critical information stored on mobile devices but only realize that data is lost for good when the device is lost, stolen, or destroyed.

 Installing a backup app might seem like the easiest solution, but most of the backup apps on Android and iOS devices only recognize data created by the app, which means all the important information created by other apps will be lost. So, why not just root the phone and allow IT teams to edit, delete and add system files? Most devices are owned by the employee, not the company, which takes the rooting strategy out of the equation.

What about syncing the phone to another device, such as a laptop or personal computer? In a perfect world, everyone would do this regularly, but in reality, users might only sync their data once a week, maybe less.

Utilizing the Cloud

The most logical backup strategy is to take all data from devices and upload it to the cloud. This can be set up to occur automatically so users never fail to transfer critical data and risk losing it.

One important note on syncing with the cloud is to only install apps that allow for notifications when an automatic sync fails. This allows a layer of protection, providing an opportunity for correction and reducing the risk of losing data. While the data might still be on the mobile device in cache form, the true file needs to reside in the cloud.

Critical Data Strategies

It’s important to prioritize data that needs to be backed up. Once that data is identified, scheduling regular backups is the next step. This data can include everything from emails to notes, accounting files to invoices. Everyone will have different priorities, but even if you’re utilizing the cloud for your backup needs, many successful companies go the extra step of creating local backups.

While cloud-based companies that offer storage services are secure, the data can still be sabotaged, either by a hacker or an insider acting maliciously. Local backups serve as a redundancy that can be a lifesaver should you encounter a disastrous situation.

At One Connect, we help clients make strategic decisions about technology. Having this level of guidance helps our clients’ bottom line. Contact us and let’s discuss backup solutions that are a perfect fit for your specific situation.