Mobile Threat Defense (MTD): A Shield against Device Threats

Part 1. Mobile threat defense (MTD) explained

Mobility, flexibility, and accessibility are king in today’s business environment. The rise in mobile devices being used for business has risen sharply, increasing the need for employers to implement enhanced and robust security measures across their fleet of mobile devices.

Employees are more frequently displaced from the traditional office setting, accessing business-critical information from disparate geographical locations, with myriad apps, platforms, and networks being used.

It’s not hyperbole to suggest that one compromised device could have significantly negative consequences for a whole organisation. To combat this, Mobile Threat Defense is paving the way as the best all-around tool to safeguard against cybersecurity threats.

In this post, we’ll talk about how it works, common threats, MTD benefits, essential features to look for in mobile threat management, its challenges and limitations, and how Mobile Device Management (MDM) complements MTD in mobile security.

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Part 2. How does MTD work?

Mobile threat defense (commonly referred to as MTD) does exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a comprehensive security solution designed with sole purpose to detect and respond threats to your mobile devices, networks, apps and platforms.

It does this by continuously monitoring the behaviour of mobile devices, analysing network traffic, app activities, and system processes in real-time, checking for vulnerabilities, anomalies, misconfigurations, and more.

There are constantly evolving threats to be aware of in the modern digital age that could do irreparable damage to an unprepared and unguarded organisation. A good MTD tool can not only make you aware of them but protect you against them with defensive and offensive tactics.

But first, let’s look at some of the threats.

Part 3. Common device threats for businesses

The most common threats businesses should know about are:

• Malware

The sole purpose of malware is to infiltrate and infect mobile devices and is often seen in forms like ransomware, spyware, Trojan horses and adware. It’s used to steal sensitive information like passwords, contact information, banking information and more.

• Malicious apps

Sometimes apps seem legitimate but are anything but. These apps will contain hidden malicious code, which leaves devices primed for cyber-criminals to steal data or seize control of devices entirely.

• Phishing

Phishing is a common technique used by malicious actors – this social engineering attack tricks users into revealing sensitive information like passwords or credit card details, typically through emails designed to look legitimate.

• System vulnerabilities

Security weaknesses within mobile operating systems, such as misconfigured settings, leave devices exposed and more susceptible to attacks.

• Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

A type of attack where a bad actor intercepts communication between two parties on a compromised network or channel – think unsecure WiFi networks in public spaces – attackers can then eavesdrop, modify, or steal sensitive data.

Mobile threat management can help shield against all these very real threats, offering a number of benefits in the process.

Part 4. Benefits of mobile threat defense solutions

We wouldn’t be here if there weren’t some huge benefits to mobile threat management. The primary ones include:

So, what can you expect from an everyday MTD tool?

Part 5. Features to look out for in mobile threat defense software

While many MTD tools share common features, these are the important ones to consider when procuring one for your organisation:

Real-time monitoring and alerts

The ability to monitor device activities in real-time, ensuring that threats are detected immediately.

Network security

A good MTD tool will encrypt devices, whichever network they connect to, protecting those endpoints from being exposed to rogue access points.

Machine learning and AI

Advanced machine learning algorithms and AI will offer continuously refined insights and reports to identify evolving threats, which can optimise decision-making and policy implementation.

Threat intelligence

Access to up-to-date information on emerging threats, through feeds from authorised and trusted sources.

Multi-platform support

With myriad mobile devices and operating systems to manage, compatibility across all of them is crucial.

Health checks

Perform regular health checks on endpoints to determine if they meet security standards or if remedial measures are necessary.

Customisable policies

Create and implement conditional policies to provide secure access to certain apps, networks or other resources.

There are evidently numerous benefits and features, but what about disadvantages?

Part 6. Challenges and limitations of MTD

It’s important to note that MTD tools aren’t a panacea that guarantees infallible protection against any and all threats an organisation may face, but the right solution will still have dramatic benefits.

With that said, there are some challenges and limitations that organisations should understand:

Part 7. How MDM complements MTD in mobile security

MTD solutions work best when integrated within a mobile device management platform.

Mobile Device Management has it in the name: it simply manages the fleet of devices by giving organisations the ability to enforce policies, remotely wipe devices, and manage applications.

Meanwhile, MTD carries out protective measures that MDM solutions typically cannot, such as detecting malicious apps, in real-time. Both act as a comprehensive and symbiotic solution that maximises your mobile threat protection against cyberthreats.

Part 8. AirDroid Business MDM

We hope that by now you’ve got a solid understanding of how an effective mobile threat defense software, integrated into an effective MDM solution, can have far-reaching benefits for your business.

AirDroid Business MDM is one such that offers a comprehensive suite of features exclusively designed to protect your mobile devices and keep your data secure.

Some of the game-changing tools include:

1. Policy enforcement:

Ensure that devices adhere to security policies, including security authentication requirements, device compliance, and data loss prevention measures.

2. Kiosk Mode:

Create a fully customised environment with restricted access to a specific app or group of apps, websites, and device functionalities.

3. Application management:

Configure, deploy and manage business apps over-the-air with rich rollout options – all from a single remote dashboard.

4. Monitor and alerts:

Remote monitor, receive alerts, and respond to abnormal events for endpoints (e.g. excessive data usage or network errors) in real time.

5. Advanced encryption:

Secure file transfer with multi-layered encryption using HTTPS and end-to-end encryption.

Part 9. Final thoughts

There has never been a greater need for mobile threat protection against digital security risks than today. And that need will only increase. That’s because mobile devices for work will continue to grow, while threats evolve.

A sophisticated Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) solution, combined with a great Mobile Device Management (MDM) tool, is the best way for organisations to shore up their defenses against bad actors and malicious threats.