Earlier this year, the Obama administration began addressing the issue of mobility for the Federal government. Developing an extensive, new IT program, optimizing government information for mobile devices, this IT initiative will streamline government information available online and allow for increased utilization of smartphones and tablets across various departments. As federal CIOs implement this new initiative, they are developing a plan to counteract the security weaknesses that mobility introduces. Data protection and mobile security will be an essential part of this new federal IT policy.

This initiative will convert information from individual government agencies so it is readily accessible to the public and sync it with a central federal repository, providing the end user with one, main government database. Pulling data from numerous government channels into one portal, this website will increase efficiency and provide a convenient solution for end users. This program will create a unified online image across departments with centralized standards for web technology. Additionally, this program will optimize government information for smartphones and tablets.

In a digital age where mobile devices are frequently being used to accomplish everyday tasks, mobile security is central to the implementation of this policy. The new initiative recognizes the unique security threats that accompany the ease and convenience of mobility and attempts to minimize privacy concerns before the program begins. Acknowledging various mobile risks including lost and stolen devices, unsecured networks and user error, federal CIOs will develop standards that will keep certain digital services confidential. Specific protections will be created for services involving private citizen information. The initiative will also include essential user education that will cover guidelines for appropriate data sharing as well as policies that stipulate which applications can be installed on these devices. According to the policy, shutting off these security settings will be prohibited.

Streamlining this government information will create a comprehensive and well-defined user experience. With the sensitive nature of government information, mobile security will be an essential function of this initiative and comprehensive mobile security strategies will be established to keep confidential government data secure. To prevent data security breaches on end-of-life devices, this policy should also include a strategy to partner with a certified mobile buyback and recycling company that ensures complete data deletion.

Even after a phone is retired, sensitive government data can still be accessed. Certified mobile phone recycling company, e-Cycle, provides industry leading end-of-life data protection and ensures mobile security for outdated government smartphones and tablets. e-Cycle collects used cell phones and pads from businesses, including government organizations, providing reimbursement for all mobile devices that retain resale value. All other devices are recycled at no charge. Using the industry’s most rigorous data protection measures, e-Cycle ensures that the information stored on every device is completely erased.

Visit http://www.e-cycle.com/industry-experience/ to download industry specific information on wireless recycling or to learn more visit www.e-Cycle.com.

For more information, view the article New Federal Mobile IT Strategy Must Address Security by Kenneth Corbin.

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