Security Apps For Your iPhone

Recently I was discussing workplace security for portable devices with a friend and I realized that I hadn't really given you any suggestions on ways to secure your portable devices.  Since both my friend and I use our iPhones for business and it is the #1 smartphone, I thought this would be a good place to start.  Doing a little research, I started by putting together a list of different security apps available for the iPhone.  I believe all of these are available on iTunes.  Please note that I skipped over some more expensive apps that different experts recommended for no other reason that to provide some free or "close to free" security options.

Two other things that should be added to everybodys security checklist.  In the settings area of your iPhone, you should turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it to avoid possible intrusion by "drive-by sneak thieves" and also turn on passwording for your iPhone if you’re at all concerned about security (and you should be).  And for Pete's sake, use a little creativity when creating your passwords.  For fun, check to see if the password you just thought of using is on the list of most commonly guessed passwords: Commonly Guessed Passwords

 

Please keep in mind that Apple keeps pretty tight control on what they allow to run on the iOS so some of these apps aren't as pro-active as I'd like (see the anti-malware app for an example) but they are better than going totally without protection.

Anti-Malware (sorta) -
Intego VirusBarrier iOS (99 cents)

It isn’t a fully functional real-time anti-virus app for the iPhone, but it is able to scan files, including e-mail attachments and other files accessible from your iPhone, for Mac and Windows malware. The company’s website notes, “Due to the secure design of iOS, it is not possible to scan files automatically or to run scheduled scans. VirusBarrier iOS is an ‘on-demand’ detection system that lets you scan files when you want to.”

Encrypting your conversations - Kryptos (free)
If you frequently use your iPhone to discuss sensitive information during calls, this software offers secure voice communications using 256 bit AES encryption. The solution works over 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi networks. Apps for Android and BlackBerry devices are also available.

Avoiding infected web sites - Webroot SecureWeb (free)
This app offers an advanced mobile browser with URL filtering to protect users from malicious websites. The app automatically syncs with the company’s URL reputation database for real-time protection, and search results are annotated to note both safe and risky sites.

Reduce Incoming Spam - Spam Arrest (free)
Accessing e-mail on an iPhone can be incredibly frustrating if your inbox is constantly being flooded with spam. SpamArrest offers a challenge/response solution – rather than filtering for spam and malware, it requires everyone who sends you an e-mail to respond to a query to confirm their identity. The iPhone app offers the ability to create an account, manage unverified mail and edit an approved senders list.

Mask Your IP address on Public Access Hot Sports - 

Hotspot Shield VPN(Free)  

This free app can actually help you save money while protecting you when using WiFi hotspots. The VPN encrypts all traffic to protect your identity, IP address and to stop unwanted tracking while your wallet breathes a sigh of relief as data usage is reduced with the Hotspot Shield's Bandwidth Compression. You are also notified and blocked from spam, phishing and rogue websites with Malware protection, but you have the freedom to unblock any blocked content and services.

Protect or Encrypt Data On Your iPhone -

WISE ID (Free)

WISE ID provides convenience, ease of use and encrypted storage for all your iPhone data. Safely store encrypted data such as passwords, PIN numbers, credit and loyalty cards, notes, photos, websites and other data, on your iPhone only so your data is always available...right at your fingertips! Plus, it gives you the option of face recognition, dot pattern and password authentication sure to make you feel like a security ninja.

Secure FolderPRO($1.99)

Pattern lock or keypad code-lock your photos, text, videos, credit cards and passwords. Identify intruders with photo AND GPS tracking! And, you even get a secret website, bookmarks and a private navigation system…without history track from Incognito

Track your lost iPhone - Find My iPhone by Apple (Free)

Here's a free way to find your lost iPhone, using another iOS device! Simply download this onto your iPad, iPod Touch or Mac, open it and sign in with your Apple ID. Find My iPhone will help you locate your missing device on a map, play a sound, display a message, remotely lock your iPhone or erase all your iPhone's data.

 

When creating a corporate policy for using employee-owned devices on the network, it's important to cover all eventualities (and platforms).  For example, the most common employee company-related use is e-mail access and if you let employees access their company mailbox from their smartphone, you risk exposure of confidential company correspondence on their device.  If that's the case, you should mandate file encryption on those devices to protect YOUR assets.  Remember, you'd better be prepared to require certain security apps on their devices for all platforms - iPhone iOS, Android, Blackberry etc.

 

This can be a daunting task particularly if you don't have a dedicated IT staff on-site.  As IT professionals with over 25 years in the PC, server, data protection and security business, ACT can provide that guidance you need for protecting your network and devices both stationary and portable.  You can reach one of our professionals at (847) 639-7000 or e-mail us at support@act4networks.com.