The messenger service WhatsApp has been firmly anchored in the everyday lives of most smartphone users for several years now. Sharing a quick piece of information or a picture with friends or family undoubtedly makes communication easier and more personal. However, employers tend to view the popular messenger services with horror: If sensitive company data is stored on employees’ mobile devices, there is a risk of data leaks – in times of GDPR can result in high fines for companies.
We explain how you can face the danger calmly and avoid a culture of prohibition in your company.
The devil is in the detail
The catch with these apps often lies in the way they work: Anyone who downloads a messenger service onto their mobile device must authorize the app to access their own contact list. Even here, the legal provisions of the General Data Protection Regulation This would mean that each individual contact would first have to give their consent. This could result in warnings. To prevent this scenario, some companies are adopting a measure that is both radical and difficult to implement: they are banning messenger apps completely on devices used for business purposes.
Are bans really necessary?
However, we still know from our childhood days what bans encourage: they cause frustration and, for many, defiant reactions. You can therefore assume that many employees will continue to use the practical messenger services in secret. What’s more, such measures are not exactly conducive to a good working atmosphere and cooperation.
Instead, you should make your employees aware of the dangers and explain what the risks are for your company.
Protecting data – but securely
It is better than any ban to respond to the needs of colleagues and find a joint solution. Providing a safe and uncomplicated remedy Container apps such as SecurePIM. They create a shielded area on the mobile device to which other apps have no access. Messenger services no longer have any chance of reading business data and the risk of information falling into unauthorized hands is averted. A secure and GDPR-compliant solution for everyone and your employees don’t have to do without their “beloved” apps!