Microsoft shares BYOD best practices for enterprise workers

REDMOND, Wash., Jan. 6, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. today is releasing best practices for enterprise workers who are considering using their personal technology device for work and play.  This business trend, known as Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), continues to grow as more devices enter the marketplace giving consumers a variety of choice in terms of functionality and application for work and home.

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According to Gartner Research, globally, eighty-eight percent of executives report employees use their personal computing technologies for business purposes today, while only sixty-two percent of executives say they now have, or are planning to have, a BYOD program for smartphones and tablets. This gap could create challenges for the IT department for organizations that aren't equipped with the right policies to ensure unwanted botnets or spyware don't enter the enterprise.

The following infographic depicts a scenario of an enterprise worker who has just received a new tablet during the holidays and the potential security risks that can result if proper protocols are not taken as the device gets introduced to the workplace.

"The BYOD trend offers numerous benefits to users, including reduced costs, and the ability for enterprise workers to work with their preferred technology," said Don Morrison, Director, U.S. Anti-Piracy for Microsoft Corp. "That said, BYOD does blur the lines between enterprise and personal computing, and can create security risks for businesses and the workers, so it's important to have best practices in place."

Guidance from Microsoft includes:

• Procure only genuine apps and software from reputable sources
• Don't lend your device to others and run the risk of compromising its integrity
• Make sure you're safe online and protecting your privacy by visiting: www.microsoft.com/security

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

SOURCE Microsoft