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These days, more than a quarter of employees (34%) at small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) use their own phones, tablets, and laptops for work — it’s called Bring Your Own Device (BYOD).
The 2025 JumpCloud SME IT Trends report confirms this number, indicating that using personal devices means more flexibility and productivity at work. While it can be great for getting things done, BYOD also opens up some security risks.
Imagine a lost phone with sensitive client information that you not only can’t remotely access (or wipe), but one where you can’t even be certain it even has a passcode on it.
That’s a nightmare scenario.
This guide walks you through eight simple steps to help secure your clients’ BYOD and keep their data safe.
1. Set Clear Ground Rules (Your BYOD Policy)
First off, establish a BYOD policy for using personal devices for work. These rules and policies should clearly explain what’s allowed and what’s not.
For example, it should cover things like what apps can be used (acceptable use guidelines), how strong passwords need to be (security protocols), who owns the data on the device (data ownership), and what happens if the rules are broken (policy violation consequences).
Make sure that your clients understand and agree to these rules. You may have to roll out simple policies to start and work your way toward a fully formed program.
2. Advocate for Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Since passwords are the keys to your digital information, they need to be strong and not easily guessed. Think long and complicated passwords, and make sure to change them regularly.
Even better, use multi-factor authentication (MFA) as an extra layer of security, confirming the users’ identity through multiple channels like authenticator app, SMS code, or biometric scan.
This is like having two locks on your door — you need a password and something else, like a code sent to your phone, to get in. This helps prevent the personal device from being a potential vector.
3. Lock Up Your Data (Device Encryption)
Encryption is like scrambling your data so no one can read it without a special key. If a device gets lost or stolen, encryption keeps the information safe.
Many modern OSs offer built-in encryption tools; you should enforce their use on all employees’ personal devices accessing company resources, along with clear instructions to enable and manage them.
4. Implement MDM or MAM Solutions
Using Mobile Device Management (MDM) or Mobile App Management (MAM) solutions is like having a central control panel for all work-related devices.
These tools let you manage devices and apps used for work. MDM manages the entire device, along with device settings, security policies, and remote wipe capabilities.
On the other hand, MAM allows you to control which apps can access corporate data and implement containerization to separate work and personal data.
With these tools, you can enforce security policies, remotely wipe lost or stolen devices, and ensure compliance for your clients.
5. Secure Network Access Control (NAC)
It’s vital for your clients to control network access for BYOD devices to secure them, and that’s exactly what network access control (NAC) does.
It makes sure only authorized devices can connect to your network, preventing unwanted guests (and hackers) from getting in and accessing sensitive data.
You can use NAC to enforce security policies for personal devices, such as keeping their antivirus software up to date before connecting.
6. Regularly Update Software and Patch Vulnerabilities
Software updates are like getting regular checkups for the devices, fixing security weaknesses that hackers might try to exploit.
Emphasize the importance of keeping OSs and apps up to date for your clients, and make sure that they adhere to it. Also encourage them to enable automatic/manual device updates as the situation requires.
7. Educate Clients About Security Awareness
Even with the best technology, people can make mistakes. Conduct regular security awareness training to educate clients about common threats such as phishing, malware, and social engineering.
You can show them how to recognize suspicious emails, avoid clicking on unknown links, and report any security incidents promptly.
8. Implement Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Strategies
Data loss prevention (DLP) is like having a security guard for your data. It helps prevent sensitive information from accidentally or intentionally leaving your company.
For example, it can block someone from emailing a confidential document to their personal email address.
In a Nutshell
Keeping your clients’ data safe is a team effort. By following these simple steps, you can create a more secure BYOD environment and protect your clients from potential threats. Don’t wait until something bad happens — take action now to safeguard your valuable information.
Still not sure what to do? Contact our JumpCloud experts for more information or start your free trial today.
