COPE stands for "Corporate-Owned, Privately Enabled" devices. COPE refers to a policy where an organisation provides employees with corporate-owned devices (e.g. laptops, smartphones, etc.) that they are allowed to use for personal purposes as well as for work.
The organisation has control over the device and is responsible for maintaining its security and privacy. COPE allows employees to have a single device for both work and personal use, which can increase convenience and productivity, but it also requires that the organisation takes steps to ensure the security and privacy of the device and the data it contains.
Checklist
We know that managing devices can be daunting, so our cyber security experts have put together a quick and easy to follow checklist to help you get started on Mobile Device Management (MDM) right now!
- Develop a clear COPE policy: Define the guidelines and restrictions for the use of corporate-owned devices for personal purposes.
- Require multi-factor authentication (MFA): Enable multi-factor authentication for all systems and accounts to enhance security.
- Enforce password policies: Implement strong password policies and regularly change passwords.
- Install mobile device management software: Use MDM software to monitor and manage the security of corporate-owned devices.
- Encrypt sensitive data: Encrypt all sensitive data stored on corporate-owned devices.
- Provide security training: Provide regular security awareness training for employees to educate them on security best practices.
- Regularly update software and systems: Regularly update all devices with the latest security patches and software versions.
- Remote wipe capability: Implement the ability to erase all data from a lost or stolen device.
- Monitor network access: Monitor network access and limit it to only necessary personnel.
- Regularly evaluate the COPE policy: Regularly evaluate the COPE policy and make updates as necessary to ensure its effectiveness.
By following these steps, companies can manage COPE devices in a secure manner, reducing the risk of security breaches and unauthorised access to sensitive information. It is important to regularly review and update these policies to ensure that they remain effective in protecting against potential security threats.
