African Risk Migration (ARM) has announced it has secured pan-African distribution rights for the SimplySecure mobile device security solutions provided by Beachhead Solutions.

The SimplySecure Management System is a single, configurable, web-based management tool allowing users to remotely secure all mobile devices – including bring-your-own-device (BYOD) – used within a business. The system is built for iPhones and iPads, Android phones and tablets, Windows and Mac PCs, and USB storage devices, and modules can be added instantaneously to a company’s account as they are needed.

BYOD is a growing security concern, as the smartphones, tablets, laptops and USB drives carried by the vast majority of the workforce have become valuable personal and business tools. Although employees own them, they often offer unlimited access to sensitive company data.

The repercussions are often series when devices are lost or stolen, and businesses cannot rely on employees to have encryption in place or to leave sensitive data off of their devices. SimplySecure gives companies a practical solution for enforcing mobile security across all devices.

“SimplySecure is reasonably priced and, as the name suggests, it is extremely easy to install and operate,” says Francois Els, ARM’s GM.

“It is a cloud-based service and is managed from a simple web-console. The SimplySecure service can be deployed for SOHO environments in addition to enterprises. We will also be offering SimplySecure via a managed services model, and will handle all back-end and admin for our clients should they select this option.”

Features of SimplySecure include device tracking, remote network access shutoff, immediate data access elimination through instant lock across all platforms, complete data wipe capability when devices are stolen and remote enforcement of password and security policy.

In addition, it boasts customisable reporting of status and device risks/conditions, a broad range of both administrator-enabled and automatic security responses to threat conditions, as well as enforced encryption of all sensitive data on the phone or tablet.

“Beachhead is pleased to welcome ARM as a SimplySecure pan-African distribution partner,” said Cam Roberson, Beachhead Solutions’ Director of the Reseller Channel. “ARM owns a well-deserved reputation for efficient delivery of SaaS offerings and their security focus and expertise is well-suited for the SimplySecure PC & mobile device encryption and security platform.”

The SimplySecure solution arrives at a time when governments are beginning to require more secure policies around the handling of private data.

The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI), already enacted but pending commencement, will be felt by every organisation in South Africa. All public and private organisations, including schools, FTEs, NGOs, NPOs and others must put in place adequate systems and processes to safeguard the personal information of their customers and stakeholders. This will include data that may be left on devices that are lost or stolen.