Why Mobile Access Is a Leap Ahead in Convenience and Security
Physical Access vs. Mobile Access: Why Physical IDs Can Be a Problem
Physical access control cards are in widespread use — and have been for decades — even though they are easily forgotten, lost, copied and cloned. Many of these card credentials rely on outdated technology with numerous well-known vulnerabilities.
Why do so many companies continue to expose their people, property and data to such risk? The reasons vary. But what is clear is that more and more solution providers are leveraging the device employees already have on hand at all times: their phones.
Mobile Access Offers Layers of Security — And Convenience
Mobile phones are inherently secure, most commonly protected with a passcode, fingerprint or facial scan.
With mobile access — placing digital credentials onto a smartphone, smart watch or other mobile device — businesses can operate under high security standards, without sacrificing convenience. If a phone is lost, the employee is highly likely to notice right away, notifying administrators to immediately revoke access to the credential and reinstate when they log in from their new phone.
Mobile access is also incredibly private. Providing credentials digitally ensures that no confidential information (like where the employee works, their name, etc.) is ever on display. Additionally, each unique credential is encrypted to protect the ID holder’s identity, while also providing improved security to the organization.
Despite its numerous advancements and increasingly widespread use, many misunderstandings persist about mobile access. Separate fact from fiction by reading our eBook, The Truth Behind 9 Mobile Access Myths.
What to Look for in a Mobile Access Solution
Not all mobile access solutions offer the same level of security, user experience and flexibility — or can be easily integrated into your existing systems. How do you identify the best option for your organization with so many options out there? Here’s our short list of prerequisites for secure, flexible and scalable mobile access:
Ongoing Threat Prevention
Organizations need to be able to implement reader and credential security upgrades as needed, without the need for a complete system overhaul.
Robust Encryption
Mobile IDs must be encrypted using industry-standard algorithms (like AES-128) and, for added security, stored on the reader’s secure element.
International Compliance
Compliance with international standards such as ISO 27001, System and Organization Controls 2 (SOC 2) and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensures data privacy and security across regions and markets.
Agnostic Support
Opt for credential readers that are capable of supporting not only a wide range of credential technology but also your migration plan to mobile access, ensuring your return on investment.
Integration With Other Applications
Choose mobile access solutions that can support a seamless integration with additional applications, like meeting room booking, secure print release, bike storage, etc.
It’s Time to Move Forward With Mobile — Without Compromising Security
Mobile devices are central to our lives, involved in nearly every aspect of work, home and everywhere in between, and as such, the information contained within them must remain secure, private and heavily protected. Digital keys and wallets are the future — and indeed, the present, for many organizations already — offering the ultimate in convenience and security.
Visit our mobile access content hub to read case studies, gain an understanding of app versus wallet options and learn more about HID Mobile Access®.