Category: Software

  • MDM solutions for Data Security

    MDM solutions for Data Security

    Imagine you lost your company laptop or mobile phone and were unable to find it. What if bad actors get to the critical business data in it? Mobile Device Management or MDM solutions for data security can help you address such scenarios.

    In this Article

    What is MDM

    MDM or mobile data management is a data security and administration approach that enforces data loss prevention (DLP) on mobile devices. It helps businesses monitor, manage and secure mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops used by their employees.

    There are many ready-made MDM solutions available in the market. Typically, a MDM solution includes a set of on-device applications, configurations, corporate policies and back-end infrastructure. 

    Why businesses need MDM

    All businesses have critical and confidential data like project details, financial and client information etc. Protecting this business data is crucial. A company’s data loss prevention or DLP measures focus on securing data from being leaked, mishandled, or accessed by unauthorized parties. MDM helps DLP solutions by enforcing effective data security policies on mobile devices.

    Generally, MDM solutions are important for data security in all businesses, especially those with remote or mobile workforces. A company’s mobile devices like laptops, tablets, smartphones used by the staff often leave its secure IT network. They may connect to public, less secure WiFi networks, risking critical business data.

    For large businesses with multiple branches, departments and security policies, managing all their mobile devices is a challenge. MDM can address this and ensure data security, compliance and efficient mobile device management.

    Key features of MDM solutions

    • Device Enrollment & Management-
      This feature allows users to enroll mobile devices and enforce security policies in them. Meaning your IT team can manage your company’s mobile devices. You can put controls on app installations and update patches as needed.
    • Remote Monitoring & Control-
      Organizations can track, troubleshoot and even wipe devices remotely. This becomes important when the device is lost, or staff work from home and IT admin can’t physically access the device. 
    • Security & Compliance-
      MDM solution protects sensitive data with encryption, VPN access and password enforcement. These layers of security encrypt data so that nobody else can access it even if the device is lost.
    • Application Management-
      This feature ensures that only pre-approved apps are installed and used in the mobile device. This prevents shadow IT and unauthorized applications. 
    • BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Support-
      Today employees use their BYOD or personal devices to access work files. BYOD support allows personal device usage, and secures business data in these devices too. Even if a security breach happens, the company data remain safe.

    How MDM works

    MDM operates through a combination of software, security policies and remote management tools. A MDM server acts as a central control hub, MDM agents installed in mobile devices allow communication between your server and mobile devices. 

    1. Firstly a mobile device is enrolled in a MDM system. It can be done manually, using QR codes, or via automated enrollments like Apple’s DED or Android Enterprise.
    2. The IT admin of a company defines security policies and configurations on MDM’s management console. These may include password requirements, app restrictions, geo-fencing and encryption settings.
    3. MDM agent applies these data security measures into the enrolled mobile devices. As per management approvals, MDM allows controlled app installations and updates.
    4. Server in the MDM system continuously monitors the devices for compliance and security. The company’s IT department can remotely track, lock or even wipe the devices if lost or stolen. 

    VPN configurations ensure access to corporate networks. MFA (multi factor authentication) puts additional verifications adding an extra security layer. For example, if a hacker bypasses VPN credentials, he may access the server and corrupt its data. If MFA is in place, he now needs MFA code additionally, to reach the server. But the MFA code is available only to the authorized user, and the hacker can’t go further.

    Data privacy feature containerization ensures isolation of business data from personal data. In addition, AI-driven threat detection, like, in AI-powered zero trust IT networks, helps to spot security risks proactively. 

    Related Questions

    What happens if MDM enabled device is lost or stolen?

    If a MDM enabled device is lost or stolen, this is what happens. Once the device comes online, MDM software remotely locks it and starts tracking. If necessary, it wipes the device by erasing its data entirely. Additional security features like encryption, secured VPN (virtual private network) and MFA (multi factor authentication) further prevents unauthorized device access. 

    Does MDM affect device performance?

    MDM solutions are designed to run efficiently without impacting device performance significantly. 

    Best practices to implement MDM

    While implementing MDM, businesses need to do the following:

    • Define clear policies from the start
    • Ensure employee awareness of the policies
    • Regular updating of security settings
    • Employee training on cyber security best practices
    • Clear cut standard operating procedures (SOPs) 
    • What to do in situations like- a company device lost or stolen
    • Crisis controls at IT department and management levels

    Choosing the right MDM solution for your business

    While selecting MDM solutions for your company, consider their security features, scalability, ease of use and suitability with your business needs. 

    1. Start by think about your existing scenario that include- 
      • Company website, email service provider, ERP or CRM systems and SaaS services in use
      • Official and personal messaging platforms used by whole or certain departments in your firm 
      • How your staff access data, whether via official or personal devices
      • Existing security policies
      • Current DLP and endpoint protection 
    2. Check if the MDM solution you have in mind complies with local cyber security and data protection laws.
    3. Check whether that MDM solution is compatible and easily integrated with the mobile devices in your office.
    • Microsoft Intune (Cloud-based, integrated with Microsoft 365)
    • Jamf Pro (For managing apple devices)
    • Kandji (Premium solution for Apple devices)
    • IBM MaaS360 (AI-powered insights and security)
    • Hexnode MDM (Flexible solution for various device types)
    • ManageEngine MDM Plus (Strong security and remote management)
    • Cisco Meraki (Cloud-based, real-time monitoring)
    • AirDroid Business (or managing Android devices)
    • JumpCloud (Focuses on identity management and security)
    • Citrix Endpoint Management (Unified endpoint management with IoT support)

    Final Thoughts

    In today’s IT landscape, companies rely on mobile devices to do business. Data loss prevention on these devices, that go beyond company borders, has become a necessity. MDM solutions data security features protect critical information on them remotely. Whether the data is within, or goes outside the company’s IT network.

    There are a number of MDM solutions in the market now. The right solution for your business depends on your firm’s IT environment and mobile devices and features your business uses. Get your MDM solution and stay in control, no matter where work happens.

    Share your thoughts, queries or suggestions below. We’d love to hear from you.

  • Data Recovery Software RUndelete: A Powerful Tool

    Data Recovery Software RUndelete: A Powerful Tool

    Losing files can disrupt both our personal and professional lives. The data recovery software RUndelete offered by R-Tools Technology Inc. can efficiently bring back lost files such as accidently deleted files from your data storage devices. In addition to data recovery, RUndelete provides data security.

    As our hard disks get full, we go about deleting everything we find junk. Only later do we learn that we accidentally deleted a cherished photo, an important document, or a critical business data. That is where R-Undelete by R-Tools Technology comes in.

    In this article

    Why use R-Undelete software

    R-Undelete software is suitable for anyone- a tech novice or a seasoned professional. It comes handy when one needs to recover files from local disks, SSDs, USB drives, memory cards, or even damaged file systems.

    There are other similar products in the market. So what’s different with R-undelete? It leverages advanced recovery technology that is professional level. The tech here is the same as  its professional counterpart R-Studio, but with a simplified interface suited for beginner levels. 

    Key Features of R-Undelete

    1. Free home version

    When it comes to home use, we usually prefer free versions. R-Undelete offers the free version for personal uses. Meaning robust data recovery capabilities without any cost.

    2. Lifetime updates

    Sometimes the latest operating system (OS) updates don’t work with their older versions. R-Undelete provides free lifetime updates and upgrades for all versions, and you can be free of worry.

    3. Advanced file sorting

    We often face clutter, trying to find an important file in the maze of many. After recovering the lost data, R-Undelete software automatically organizes those files by type, name, size, or date. Thereby you can easily find the file you need.

    4. Portable installation

    If you use multiple laptops, desktops or other devices, you can install R-Undelete on a USB device. This avoids overwriting lost files on your system disk.

    5. Raw file recovery

    If file systems get damaged severely, R-Undelete can identify and recover files based on their unique signatures.

    The features mentioned above are that of the free version of R-Undelete software. There is also a paid version of the software available that has additional features.

    How does R-Undelete work?

    The data recovery software R-Undelete works using a deep disk scanning algorithm to locate, and then recover deleted files. 
    The users get a walk through the recovery process step-by-step via a user-friendly interface.  Even a non-technical person can use it easily and retrieve lost data.

    How to recover lost data using R-Undelete software

    Here is a list of steps to recover your lost data files/folders from your storage device using R-Undelete software:

    1. Download and install R-Undelete software:

      Visit R-Tools Technology Inc. website and download the latest version of R-Undelete software. Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. Once installed, launch the application.

    2. Select the drive:

      On the main screen, you’ll see a list of available drives. Select the drive/partition where your lost files are located. Click the button Next to start scanning.

    3. Scan for lost files:

      The next step is scanning your storage device to search for lost data files. Depending on how long ago you lost the data, select either Quick scan, or Deep scan. The scanning may take a few minutes depending on drive size.

    4. Preview, Select and Mark files:

      After scanning, locate your lost files in the file tree, and select them. Use the preview feature to check the contents of the selected files. Then mark them for recovery.

    5. Recover files:

      While recovering, save the marked files in a different drive (not the drive you’re recovering files from). Click Recover, and then Confirm buttons. Thus R-Undelete software recovers your lost data from wherever it was in your storage device.

    You can download the complete user manual for R-Undelete here.

    The following is a video tutorial in case you need more help:

    Beyond data recovery

    R-Undelete software provides dual functionality- 

    1. Data Recovery
    2. Data Security

    This software doesn’t just recover files—but also wipes files and securely erases sensitive data completely. It ensures that the erased data never gets recovered in future, by any software. Imagine discarding your laptop or upgrading to a new one. Use R-undelete to securely wipe the laptop before handing it over for recycling or selling it as used item.

    Learn More

    Other products from R-Tools Technology

    Other than R-Undelete, the company R-Tools Technology offers a variety of software products. Some of them are R-Photo and R-Studio.

    Final Thoughts

    Whether you’re a tech novice, or a seasoned professional, data recovery software RUndelete is a reliable and efficient solution for file recovery. Powerful features and user-friendly design makes it a great tool to safeguard your digital life.

    What are your take on the product? We love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment here.

  • Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Securing Critical Business Data

    Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Securing Critical Business Data

    In today’s digital world, data is a company’s most valuable asset. All businesses have confidential data like project details, financial and client information etc. Losing critical data can lead to financial losses, reputational damage and legal penalties for businesses. Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is a concept of preventing data loss through external or internal sources. Let’s explore.

    In this article

    Importance of DLP measures in a business

    Companies use DLP (Data Loss Prevention) measures to safeguard their confidential and sensitive information. It ensures critical data is only accessible to authorized users. DLP is a proactive step towards building resilient and trustworthy businesses in the following ways:

    1. Prevents unintentional data leaks-

    One main reason for data loss is human errors. DLP reduces accidental data leaks by employees by employing context-aware controls and continuous data monitoring. With accurate detection, real-time user coaching and adaptive reaction, unintentional data losses can drop significantly.

    2. Reduces intentional data breaches–

    Intentional breaches by inside or outside players are another reason for business data loss. DLP can reduce malevolent data breaches by spotting irregularities and then stopping data exfiltration.
    Example- If a data movement occurs on a public holiday, a sensitive folder like .csv gets accessed screenshots will be taken. The system then classifies these changes and prevents them from happening.

    3. Unified, intelligent & proactive operations

    DLP isn’t just about preventing data loss. It actively contributes to smoother, smarter, and safer business operations. It unifies security efforts, manages data flow intelligently, and proactively addresses risks before data leaks happen.

    4. Safeguards private information in SaaS apps

    DLP ensures that private and corporate tenants, unapproved apps and AI powered platforms have data security across SaaS (Software as a Service)  applications. That prevents accidental disclosures and unwanted access via these apps. 
    Most of the SaaS applications in the market are compliant with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Also ensure they comply with data protection laws in your operating country. 

    5. Verifies adherence to privacy laws-

    DLP’s unified and intelligent approach to data protection makes management easier. It also enables you to proactively support compliance to regulatory standards across all control points.

    6. Protects intellectual property

    Businesses have innovative ideas, product designs and trade secrets. These can also become prime targets of cyber attacks. DLP machine learning and trainable classifiers classify and protect intellectual property. And that helps businesses maintain their competitive edge.

    Before implementing DLP measures in your business,

    Here are some key things to keep in mind before deciding to use DLP measures in your business. 

    1. Analyze what level of data protection you need for your business. Assess whether you need a minimum, medium, or higher level of DLP measures. 
    2. Remember, DLP measures can affect your end-user operations. So, aim to have a balance in your data security measures so the end-users can transact without glitches. Have corrective measures if DLP prevents genuine business use cases. Example- Management authorizations to approve data access requests.
    3. Combining DLP with mobile device management or MDM solutions can increase data security in your organization. MDM can work in tandem with your DLP solution and enhance data security in your organization. 

    How to implement DLP measures in your business

    Now you can assess your company’s DLP needs and plan accordingly. Let’s look at the processes involved in DLP.

    1. Critical Data Identification

    Where exactly are your important files located? Nowadays, most data is in either approved applications like emails, or in unauthorized apps like file sharing or messaging apps. 
    Identify all your critical data sources. List where your business data lives: on-premise servers, cloud apps, databases, email systems, laptops, mobile and IoT devices etc. In short, don’t leave out any device that is connected to your local network or/and internet. 
    Also understand the flow of data — how it’s created, accessed, shared and stored.

    2. Data Classification 

    After identifying and locating your critical data, the next step is their classification. Data classification involves sorting the data into categories based on sensitivity. 
    Look at what type of data each department uses. Many departments may use only email platforms, and some document and MS Excel files.  Marketing or designing departments may use many other types of files. 
    While classifying data, ask yourself, Is there an active directory (AD) and document control in place now? What add-ons to consider? 

    3. DLP implementation

    After data classification, your DLP solution applies the right protections for each data category. It’s the foundation for smart, effective and compliant data security.
    Implement the right DLP solution that fits the specific needs of your business. Make approval policies and unified management of all data touch points in your company. This can be department wise, hierarchy wise or on a need-to-know basis. Update data security rules across all your channels.
    Have streamlined procedures to maintain smooth workflows and business operations. At the same time, make sure your business operations don’t get restricted because of the data security regulations.
    Sometimes, data breaches can occur via 3rd party SaaS apps like video conference platforms. To protect against this, use secured browsers, clouds and remote sites. Use SSO (single sign on) and MFA (multi factor authentication) in your business networks.
    Thus you have access controls, rules for your email platforms, cloud storage, endpoint security. Plus real-time monitoring to detect anomalies.

    4. Optimization and Monitoring

    After DLP implementation, what next? Now you can optimize, monitor and improve the data securing processes. For that, conduct periodic audits to mimic data loss possibilities. Test periodically, to know whether your DLP system works effectively, or needs further fine-tuning.
    Look at your DLP alerts. If false positive alerts emerge, then fine-tune it. Ask yourself, is sensitive data still accessible? Are user roles and risk levels configured properly?
    Train your employees on cybersecurity best practices, simulations and data breach exercises. For extra safety, integrate your DLP solution with SIEM (Security Incident and Event Management) and CASB (Cloud Access Security Broker) tools.
    Additionally, you can stay informed with changes in privacy and security related laws such as:

    DLP solutions

    What are DLP solutions?

    DLP (Data Loss Prevention) solutions are a set of software tools and strategies designed to detect, monitor, and protect sensitive business data from accidental loss, intentional leak or misuse. They help businesses control how information is accessed, shared and stored, so critical and confidential data stays secure.

    Key Features of DLP Solutions:

    • Data identification and classification-
      Locate and label sensitive data based on content, context, and business value.
    • Policy enforcement-
      Apply rules to control how data is accessed, transferred, or shared, both inside and outside the organization.
    • Real-time monitoring-
      Track data in use (on endpoints), in motion (across networks), and at rest (in storage or cloud).
    • Alerts and reporting-
      Notify security teams about unusual activities or policy violations.
    • Incident response-
      Automatically block or quarantine suspicious activities and provide insights for investigation.
    • Compliance support-
      Help businesses meet legal and industry-specific data protection requirements

    Examples of DLP solutions:

    • Microsoft Purview
    • Symantec DLP by Broadcom
    • Forcepoint DLP (a cloud native platform by Zero Trust)
    • McAfee DLP (strong for endpoint security)
    • Cyberhaven (focused on insider threats),
    • Safetica (user friendly with strong compliance tools),
    • SecureTrust (for data security)
    • TrenMicro Micro IDLP (strong in endpoint security),
    • Trellix DLP (for advanced threat protection)
    • Endpoint Protector (by CoSoSys for data security and device control)

    AI powered DLP

    As business grows, policies change and data interconnections become complex. Then it gets harder to track all data moves, interactions, and the factors affecting them. Unified, proactive AI-driven data management can streamline DLP processes then. 

    AI driven DLP solutions efficiently track movement of data shared by various software, apps and other programs. These applications benefit from AI access security. This lowers security risks, streamlines complexity and administration. Your life gets easier.

    While there are many benefits to AI powered DLP, make sure you don’t endanger your private and sensitive information.

    Examples of AI powered DLP solutions:

    • Palo Alto Enterprise DLP
    • Forcepoint DLP
    • Symantec DLP
    • Trellix DLP
    • Nightfall AI
    • Safetica

    Final Thoughts

    Data loss prevention (DLP) measures help protect organizations’ valuable assets. It secures critical business data from unintentional leaks and intentional breaches. It also helps businesses stay compliant with data protection laws, safeguard customer trust, and maintain operational integrity. 

    When deciding to use DLP measures in your company, consider your business environment. Assess the level of data safety you need and decide accordingly. Also keep a balance between data security and smooth end-user operations. 

    First identify your critically important data, classify them, and then implement a DLP solution. Afterwards, test and monitor regularly for effective DLP in your business.  

    Here are some useful links for you:

    Check if your email or phone number was compromised.

    To know whether other personal details are exposed.

    Find out if your personal data has been exposed on dark web.

    Share your thoughts on the topic. Drop a comment below.