By HANNAH POLK

For the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce

Blackberry work phones have almost become a “back in my day,” story to tell the grandkids, but is 2023 the year they make a comeback?

Apparently, it is, according to two major telecommunications companies in the United States that saw over a 50-per-cent increase in business-phone users last year.

With cyber threats on the rise and sensitive information at risk, the trend of using work phones is making a remarkable comeback.

Data Security Concerns

The past decade has seen a rapid increase in data breaches and cyber attacks, resulting in significant financial losses and reputational damage to businesses.

According to a national assessment by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, cyber attacks targeting Canadian businesses have increased in the past three years. The assessment suggests the rise is likely due to employees making the switch to working from home in 2020 and relying more heavily on technology to perform work duties.

As a result, business owners are recognizing the importance of adopting stringent security practices.

Work Phones for Data Protection

Unlike personal smartphones, work phones can be equipped with advanced security features that offer protection against cyber threats. These features include encrypted messaging, secure email clients, and built-in firewalls.

By separating personal and work-related activities, employees are less likely to fall prey to phishing attacks or data leaks.

Furthermore, work phones can be remotely wiped if they are lost or stolen, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive business data.

Don’t Sacrifice Quality for Security

Advancements in mobile technology have significantly improved the capabilities of work phones.

Modern devices offer enhanced security features, improved processing power, and greater storage capacities.

This makes them a great option for businesses to protect their data without compromising on functionality, productivity or convenience.

By adopting work phones, businesses can benefit from advanced security features, reduced risks of data breaches, and compliance with regulatory frameworks.

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for local business owners to prioritize data protection.

By embracing work phones, businesses can emulate the security standards of the bygone Blackberry era while adapting to the demands of the modern digital age.

Overall, bringing back a secure work phone, such as the earlier Blackberry models, may be a proactive step towards ensuring the longevity and success of businesses in an increasingly interconnected world.