Minnesota has enacted the first-ever smartphone ‘kill switch’ law in an effort to address phone theft. The law requires all smartphones sold in the state to have anti-theft functionality installed at the time of purchase or be capable of downloading such functionality.
Based on data from 2012, the Federal Communications Commission estimates that one in three robberies involves a smartphone. The law seeks to deter phone thieves by allowing owners to remotely disable their devices and wipe all of their data.
The law will go into effect on July 1, 2015. Most major smartphone manufacturers are preparing to offer remote lock and wipe functionality by this time.
Other states are following in Minnesota’s footsteps. Lawmakers in California have proposed a similar bill that would go into effect on January 1, 2015. New York and Illinois are also preparing to vote on related legislation.
Benefit Allocation Systems, Inc. recognizes the importance of security and privacy for mobile devices and has implemented a comprehensive mobile device management program. Notably, the program allows for the remote wipe of devices that have been lost, stolen, or compromised. Additionally, BAS installs monitoring software on all employee mobile devices that access client information.
For more information about BAS’ mobile device policy, please see here or contact security@BASusa.com.