Mobile security: Effective protection through MDM in the skilled trades

Industry 4.0: The mobile freedom offered by smartphones and tablets increases the risk of data loss and cyberattacks. Mobile Device Management (MDM) enables businesses to reliably protect their devices.

This article is part of the special feature on digital craftsmanship.

Ensuring data security on mobile devices is a constant challenge for craft businesses . The risks are particularly high when employees use their personal smartphones or tablets for work purposes . At the same time, the complexity of managing these devices increases with the number of devices in use. Nevertheless, businesses must guarantee the security of all sensitive information at all times. Mobile Device Management, or "MDM" for short, is recommended as a professional solution for secure and efficient device management.

Remote control for mobile devices

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is software that functions like a digital remote control for mobile devices . It allows users to administer, monitor, and secure mobile phones, tablets, and, with some providers, laptops from a central computer, eliminating the need to handle each device individually. Automated configuration processes significantly reduce the time required for device management. For example, businesses can use a central digital control center to manage access rights, close security gaps, and create a consistent working environment on every device.

This drastically reduces administrative effort – including for updates, which are centrally managed and enforced on all devices simultaneously . The time required for setup and management is therefore almost always the same – whether for five or 50 devices. This centralized administration of all devices connecting to the company network is also known as "endpoint management."

Remote security

The fundamental functionality of an MDM system is based on the constant connection between the central software and the installed, individual profiles on the mobile devices . As soon as a new smartphone or tablet enters the company network, it is registered and automatically receives all the necessary settings – without requiring the installation of any special software. This ranges from setting up the company Wi-Fi and a dedicated email address to installing important industry-specific apps . A further advantage becomes apparent in the event of theft or loss: Remote wiping allows sensitive customer data and internal company information to be removed from the device at any time with the push of a button . Furthermore, it is possible to precisely define which applications are permitted to be installed. This prevents insecure programs from compromising IT security or employees from being distracted from their work by unwanted apps.

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Another advantage of MDM systems is GDPR compliance : The software enables a strict separation between private and business data. This is particularly important for companies using the "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) model, where employees use their own devices for business purposes. The system then creates a protected area for company emails and documents, which the phone's private environment cannot access.

Costs and initial setup

One disadvantage of MDM is the ongoing cost , which varies between approximately two and 20 euros per device per month, depending on the provider and features . However, the investment usually pays for itself quickly through the time saved configuring new devices and the prevention of costly data breaches.

In any case, tradespeople should allow sufficient time to familiarize themselves with the system and its initial setup. It is also advisable to ensure employee acceptance beforehand , so that no one feels controlled by the central administration. After all, the system primarily serves to protect the company and ensure legal compliance.

Time savings and legal certainty

In conclusion, mobile device management saves time, streamlines processes, and increases security in an increasingly mobile work environment. It protects data, simplifies procedures, and lays the foundation for legally compliant digitalization in the skilled trades. Businesses that professionally manage their mobile devices gain not only security but also time and transparency in their daily operations.

The software of MDM systems enables a strict separation between private and business data.

Setting up Mobile Device Management1. Strategic preparations
– Inventory
Recording of all smartphones and tablets used in the company, divided into company-owned and employees' private devices.

– Usage model
Decision between using only work devices, mixed use or integrating private devices

– Safety regulations
Establishing minimum standards for passwords, encryption and biometrics (fingerprint/face ID)

– Budget planning
Calculation of one-time and ongoing costs per device

2. Selection of the MDM solution
– System compatibility
Does the software support iOS (Apple), Android, or both operating systems? Are notebook operating systems also desired?

- Security
Are there remote locking and remote wipe functions in case of loss or theft?

– Scalability
Is the solution suitable for the current company size and further growth?

– Data protection
Is GDPR compliance ensured by server locations in the EU and a strict separation of private and business data?

3. Technical equipment
– Registration

Using programs like Apple Business Manager or Android Zero-Touch for quick integration of new devices

– Configuration

Automatic deployment of Wi-Fi access, email accounts, and VPN connections

– App Management
Centralized distribution of industry-specific software such as measurement apps, time tracking systems, or ERP clients via an in-house app store.

– Functional limitations
Disabling unsafe services or apps that disrupt operations or pose security risks.

4. Operation and Safety
– Update Management
Function to force operating system updates to close security gaps

– Status of all devices
Overview of storage space, battery status and compliance violations (jailbreak/rooting)

– Data separation
Setting up encrypted containers for business contacts and documents on private devices 

– Audit-proof exit

Documented process for deleting operational data when equipment is decommissioned or when an employee leaves the company.

5. Organizational matters
– Employee usage agreements
Legal protection through clear rules on private use and data protection

– Employee briefings
Training in the functionality of the MDM and raising awareness of how to deal with mobile security risks

– Emergency plan
Documentation of contact persons and steps to take in case of device loss

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