Nearly half of UK businesses do not secure smart handheld devices to the same high level they secure laptop computers.

Researchers from Quocirca found increasing use of connected devices but few businesses taking action to secure data or access to the machines. Network managers understand the risk of such devices - they are very aware of the danger of theft or loss but are less concerned about the security risk such devices could pose.

The problem is made worse by low levels of user support and training.

Quocirca points out that most of the barriers to securing mobile devices are human not technical. It recommends companies set policies for use of smart devices and make sure workers know what it is. Researchers noted that the vast majority of devices are not even protected by a simple password.

Analysts Quocirca and Orange carried out the research, speaking to 2,853 IT professionals. There will more detail and analysis on this research tomorrow.®

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