» security

3 New Tools That Make BYOD A Secure Possibility

Posted on April 16, 2013 by ellarileyadams Posted in Security, Small Business | Leave a comment

Last week, we told you about CACI’s efforts to make iPads a secure, user-friendly tool for government officials. Mobile devices are increasingly integrated in work environments and everyone from General Motors to Giorgio Armani wants to ensure their technology is secure. And when employees are transitioning their tablets from work to home and back again, it is challenging to find a flexible, reliable support system.

Thankfully, solutions are starting to emerge. As “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) becomes a feasible IT convenience, security companies will make it their specialty. As evidence, we present a few options that will allow your office to welcome BYOD devices:

MDM Support First on the table is Mobile Device Management (MDM), an application that runs on servers and devices and is managed by a central administrator who can enforce security. Though MDM doesn’t safeguard against all the risks of BYOD, ZDnet columnist Ken Hess admits, “A good application or device management suite does protect your network from jailbroken devices, from thousands of known malware programs and from standard risks via encrypted connections/communications back to the mother ship (the corporate network).” Companies like Apptix are jumping at the chance to help businesses protect their delicate networks.

Secure Browsing for iPad MDM Specialist MobileIron recently took their service a step further, providing a secure browser that will enforce corporate policies and manage mobile data while allowing users to go about their daily web work. The service is currently only available for iOS, but if it helps curtail security breaches while giving employees the web access they need, no doubt we’ll see this offering expand.

Wave Windows 8 Perhaps the solution to rule them all, Wave Systems Corp eliminates device passwords, bypasses the overhead cost and training required for most Mobile Device Management, and offers secure web connection for participating devices. Wave will be embedded into the latest generation of tablets running Windows 8. “The launch of Windows 8 tablets will redefine what mobile means to the enterprise. Now there’s a group of devices that resemble an iPad but operate like a PC,” Richard Stiennon, Chief Analyst for IT Harvest, commented in a Dark Reading summary. Basically, Windows 8 + Wave sounds like a savior for BYOD businesses. 62 percent of companies will allow BYOD by the end of the year; those devices need reliable, dynamic defense.

CACI “Neuters” iPads for Secure Use by U.S. Government

Posted on February 20, 2013 by ellarileyadams Posted in Goverment | Leave a comment

In a September conference on surveillance, Dr. John Levine of the NSA spoke on the government’s evolving integration of new technology. “The president is getting his daily intelligence briefing on an iPad,” he said. “Now, that iPad is neutered–it has no connectivity. It gets plugged into a docking station. We can do that for the president, but we can’t scale that. So the question is, can we use commercial products that are secure?”

The NSA tried building their own, secure mobile device called Mobile Environment Portable Electronic Device or MEPED. It took them four years to build, by which time no intelligence official wanted to carry around an outdated, inevitably ugly piece of technology.

Today, U.S. government is trying a different tack. CACI International Inc, a federal IT contractor, has “neutered” thousands of iPads for use by government officials. Instead of providing shielding software, CACI alters the consumer machines’ hardware. In a meeting with Bloomberg Government reporters, CACI CEO Dan Allen said that the iPad’s wireless connectivity and camera are among the riskiest features in a top-secret environment, but he didn’t give details on how exactly CACI provides counteractive measures.

Though the details on CACI’s security measures are unclear, it is evident the government will develop its cybersecurity in conjunction with consumer technology, hopefully evolving staid systems. In October, the Defense Department announced plans to open its network to iPhones and Android devices. We will be watching closely.

Image via ABC News

Groupon Streamlines Restaurant Management with Breadcrumb POS System

Posted on October 15, 2012 by ellarileyadams Posted in Dining | Leave a comment

Groupon targets restauranteurs with Breadcrumb POS system for iPad.

Last week we told you about Urban Outfitters’ adoption of iPad registers. This week, Groupon is launching iPad point-of-sale systems for restaurants across the US. Through a young startup called Breadcrumb, restaurants will be able to manage tables, check food supplies, and process transactions. The Financial Times reports that the iPad-based program will cost establishments between $99 and $399 a month, cheaper–both upfront and continually–than a traditional register.

“Today, Groupon is a marketing tool that connects consumers and merchants,” CEO Andrew Mason said in a letter to stockholders this May. “Tomorrow, we aim to move upstream and serve as the entry point for local transactions.”

In addition to Breadcrumb, Groupon launched a Square-like payment system last month. Restaurant employees can use a dongle to accept credit card payments through an iPhone or iPad. While it seems Groupon is looking to be a part of every transaction phase, they’re comfortable with restaurants’ gradual adoption.

Groupon bought Breadcrumb in 2010 and has allowed the startup to operate pretty independently ever since. Restaurants who opt to use Breadcrumb aren’t required to work with Groupon deals or use Groupon’s mobile payment system. But, of course, their monthly payments go to the daily-deals company.

Though I’ve never been a server at a complex restaurant (alas Yogurt Hut doesn’t count), Breadcrumb seems to solve a lot of bothersome bugs that were inevitable with old cash register systems. And, as we’ve discussed before, restaurants are wise to embrace the iPad as their POS device, as it’s a consumer product that can be fixed or replaced, relatively cheap and easy.

Do you work in the restaurant business? Would you appreciate a more streamlined approach with a system like Breadcrumb?

Tablet Security in Medical Industry Offers Possibilities, Raises Concerns

Posted on August 31, 2012 by Harry Raymond Posted in Health care | 2 Comments

The rapid growth of tablets in health care has raised security concerns. (photo via medicaldeviceslegal.com)

It turns out that doctors love tablets. A recent study by Vitera Healthcare Solutions suggests that the iPad is the second most preferred mobile device among doctors and other medical professionals, only trailing the iPhone. The data may be interesting to companies and organizations in the medical industry that are unsure whether to make a push to Electronic Health Records (EHR).

Those who don’t favor a tablet insurgence in hospitals and medical offices point to security risks with patient records as a deterrent. Using tablets to store patient information means that hackers can potentially access sensitive materials. Also, for doctors who use a cloud software system to back up patient records, the risk multiplies because of additional access points.

However, Dr. Brian Levine of West Presbyterian Hospital told EHR Intelligence, “I’m a doctor who works in New York City, I live 40 blocks away and need to have some sort of connection, which is why having a local installation on my computer of a VPN client is appropriate. And I think that’s the safest way for doctors in general to allow for VPN networks to be set up for their hospitals.”

The debate over increased access versus security will likely continue for many more years. The Vitera study also found that only 6% of doctors currently use mobile devices to access medical records.

To support tablets in the medical industry, Dr. Levine added: “We use encrypted VPN software and my laptop, iPhone, and iPad are all VPN. That is a secure connection, but I’m not unrealistic. I actually have the ability to kill all my devices if they get lost.”

Such a precaution may help, but at the moment, hospitals may incur federal penalties if data is compromised or stolen.

What is your opinion on doctors who use tablets? Would you be comfortable with the possibility of your medical records floating around in cyberspace? Check out Tab Adapt’s health care section and let us know in the comments section below.

Miami Dolphins Turn Playbooks into iPads: How the Team will Approach Security

Posted on July 13, 2012 by Harry Raymond Posted in Security, Sports | 2 Comments

Denver Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams tweeted this sensitive photo from his iPad playbook. How do the Dolphins plan to prevent this from happening?

Last week, the Miami Dolphins became the latest NFL franchise to go digital, transferring their playbooks and game tape footage onto iPads for every player on the training camp roster. An NFL playbook typically uses hundreds of pieces of paper and is altered on a weekly basis. By making the switch, the Dolphins will not have to waste time or money printing and distributing new playbooks to the 90 players on the training camp roster. Now, the team can upload new content to each tablet from a remote source.

Running back Reggie Bush told the Sun Sentinel that he was glad the team went digital because “it makes it so much simpler and obviously that’s where technology has taken us nowadays. It’s amazing.”

Tablets may still be perceived as gadgets for individual consumers, but an increasing number of organizations and businesses are incorporating tablet technology into their daily operations in an effort to eliminate paper waste and improve employee efficiency. SageView Advisory Group switched to iPads in 2010 and saved 12,000 sheets of paper per quarter. Transitioning from paper to iPads can also save time. Employees can instantly access information on a lightweight portable tablet rather than thumbing through packets that will end up in the recycling bin.

Administrators initially had concerns about data security. To quell those concerns, the organization has instituted a strict policy that punishes players with a $10,000 fine if they access unauthorized websites. This includes social networking sites in order to prevent players from accidentally sharing sensitive information as was the case with Denver Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams, who tweeted a photo (above) of defensive formations from his digital playbook. The Dolphins can also remotely delete content from any iPad if they suspect tampering or theft.

Wide receiver Davone Bess said: “Everyday we were getting stacks and stacks of papers…Now they can just download them on the iPad and it’s there – Bam!”

The iPads may not help the Dolphins improve their 6-10 record from the 2011 season, but with a streamlined digital playbook, they are well on the way to becoming a more efficient organization. The Dolphins’ iPad implementation demonstrates how tablets can be used as business tools in just about any industry.

Should You Buy Your iPad Cart from Apple? Security Tests on Commonly Used iPad Carts [VIDEOS]

Posted on June 20, 2012 by Harry Raymond Posted in Education, Security | 1 Comment

Schools and businesses are investing tens of thousands of dollars in iPads and tablets but theft still remains a major concern. These portable devices are tempting targets and a little bit of prevention can go a long way, especially with mission-critical applications. Several companies are trying to address these concerns with institutional iPad security carts.

A few months ago we posted the results of some tests of popular iPad carts and cabinets (including some made by Bretford, Datamation Systems and Ergotron) showing their level of security protection. YouTube user Prodtest51 is back at it again. More tests were added recently, evaluating the current models of the Bretford PowerSync which is the only cart Apple sells directly to institutional clients like schools and hospitals. The results were surprising, even embarrassing. The carts are nicely designed but they provide almost no theft protection.

Here is a simple test with a pry bar and hammer:

Prodtest51′s explanation for the carnage? ”Prior to recommending iPad security cabinets and carts for a technology roll-out, we tested several to see if they were effective in resisting attack with common tools and at common points of vulnerability.”

The surprising thing is that ProdTest51 managed to take out iPads without using any tools at all! And these are premium priced carts into which a lot of design work was put. This one is astonishing. Look at this:

We were not able to confirm the accuracy of these videos but, in our opinion, they do not seem doctored. It should make someone pause before buying carts for their business or classroom. They should certainly consider which carts provide a decent measure of security.

Watch the rest of the videos below and judge for yourself.

And please tell us about your experience with tablet security in the comment section.

GriffinMultiDock:

Another with the Bretford cart (breaking the lock with a hammer):

And breaking the Bretford latch with a hammer:

Which Brand of iPad Security Cart Should Your School or Business use? A Crowbar helps us find out.

Posted on March 7, 2012 by Harry Raymond Posted in Education, Security, Small Business | 9 Comments

How do you secure a large number of tablets for a school or business? The answer is not so simple and institutional security for tablets is still an emerging market (one of the reasons we started this blog). Today, the three leading providers of iPad security carts and trays are Bretford, Ergotron and Datamation Systems.

But how do each of these company’s products hold up head-to-head? Regardless of price, which security product is most secure? YouTube user Prodtest51 equipped himself with a hammer, screwdriver and crowbar and decided to find out. Though we were not able to confirm the accuracy of these videos, the videos do not seem doctored and he seems to be sweating a lot. Here is Prodtest51′s explanation for destroying the three expensive pieces of equipment: ”Prior to recommending iPad security cabinets and carts for a technology roll-out, we tested several to see if they were effective in resisting attack with common tools and at common points of vulnerability.”

Watch these short videos to find out who can be called iPad security cart king.

First test: Ergotron iPad Cart

Second Test: Bretford iPad Sync Tray

Third Test: Datamation Systems iPad Tray (NetSafe) and Cart (NetVault)

Based on these videos, Datamation Systems products are the most secure. Something for your institution to consider.

The Cost of Lost or Stolen Tablets, Smartphones and Laptops [Infographic]

Posted on February 9, 2012 by Harry Raymond Posted in Security, Stats & Infographics | 1 Comment

This infographic by Kensington demonstrates that the cost of lost or stolen technology goes far beyond the cost of the product. The real cost can come from the subsequent data breach. With more enterprises interested in buying tablets and smartphones, security should be considered. Be aware that the statistics were not verified and were provided by a security company.

What is the most significant hurdle to getting tablets into your organization?

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Harry Raymond Posted in General, Security, Stats & Infographics | Leave a comment

What is the most significant hurdle to getting tablets into your organization?

How Organizations Everywhere are Using Tablets: Our Top 10 Stories of 2011

Posted on January 10, 2012 by Harry Raymond Posted in Fun, General | Leave a comment

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

This past year, tech headlines were dominated by tablets. The runaway success of the iPad 2, the introduction of Amazon’s Kindle Fire and robust sales figures could make 2011 the year of the tablet. According to a recent Gartner forecast, worldwide tablet sales will total 58 million units in 2011, more than a 250% increase from 2010 sales of 17.6 million units. There are more tablet game changers coming in 2012 including the iPad 3 and the highly-anticipated Windows 8 OS. If 2011 was the year of the consumer tablet, 2012 might just be the year of the business tablet. Tab Adapt has covered the early adopters in organizations in 2011. In 2012, we hope to cover the early majority. In no particular order, here is a look back at our 10 most read stories in 2011.

1) NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers Replace Playbooks with Tablets

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers became the first NFL team to throw out their paper playbooks and replace them with tablet computers. Each of the 90 players and coaches received iPad 2s this past August.

2) Wall Street Andaz Luxury Hotel Replaces Concierge Desks with iPads

When guests walk into the Andaz luxury hotel at 75 Wall Street, they may be surprised at the lack of concierge or check-in desks. Instead, guests are welcomed by roaming hosts equipped with iPads.

3) Vancouver Restaurant Adopts iPad Menus: Owner Bob Lindsay talks about his experience and the future of waiters

Lift is among a group of early adopters utilizing tablet menus, a trend first seen in sushi restaurants in New York, but, according to owner Bob Lindsay, Lift is the first restaurant to adopt the futuristic menus in Vancouver. “This is just the way the industry is going,” Lindsay told Tab Adapt.

4) Disabled Oregon voters become first to cast their ballots with tablets

In a special primary election earlier, Oregonians in five counties could cast their vote with iPads, the Associated Press first reported.

5) Milwaukee County Zoo uses iPad for Orangutan Enrichment Activities

The Milwaukee County Zoo is using iPads for primate enrichment activities. Orangutans have taken to the tablets more than Gorillas.

6) Will the Amazon Kindle Fire catch on in schools? Price says yes, Browser Security says no

At a disruptively low price point of $199, Amazon has the chance to set the education space on fire (too easy). The Kindle Fire is significantly cheaper than an iPad and offers the essential functions students will need to replace textbooks.

7) Wisconsin Library begins lending iPads

The Eau Claire library offers 44 iPads, each loaded with 1,000 books and 10 audio books. The Presto Foundation gave $50,000 to make the program possible.

8) First iPad Rental Service Booms in Madrid; Eyes International Expansion

When Francisco Pena learned that a Jetstar airline was renting iPads to passengers, he wondered why that kind of service was only offered to airline passengers.

9) Saks Fifth Avenue features iPad Window Displays

Saks Fifth Avenue shoppers in New York City were treated to a unique iPad window display in celebration of “Fashion’s Night Out.”

10) United Airlines Replaces Flight Manuals with 11,000 tablets to Reduce Fuel Costs

United Airlines announced that by the end of the year, the carrier will have given out 11,000 iPads to all of it’s pilots. The iPads will replace printed flight manuals in the cockpit.