Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comFirm Insights
Author: Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
Date: September 1, 2016
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comAs Pokémon Go exploded onto the software scene, the physical dangers of users walking into traffic, trespassing onto other people’s property, and even abandoning their children in search of the imaginary beasts caused alarm to many. However, these are just a few of the real risks of Pokèmon Go.Niantic, Inc., which until recently, only enjoyed success in the niche market of augmented reality gaming, now boasts installs surpassing 100 million and global revenue topping $160 million at the beginning of the month. However, the software has begun to distress other businesses as the Pokémon Go phenomenon booms and increasingly occupies employee time while at work.
At a base level, Pokémon Go clearly redirects the productivity of employees who feel the mission statement of “Gotta Catch ‘Em All” eclipses that of most employers. What should be more concerning to businesses than employees’ and trespassers’ imaginary expeditions is the issue of data security.
The International Association of IT Asset Managers (IAITAM) is calling for companies to ban the game from both corporate-owned, business-only (COBO) phones/tablets and “bring your own device” (BYOD) phones/tablets with direct access to sensitive corporate information and accounts. IAITAM CEO Dr. Barbara Rembiesa warned:
Frankly, the truth is that Pokémon Go is a nightmare for companies that want to keep their email and cloud-based information secure. Even with the enormous popularity of this gaming app, there are just too many questions and too many risks involved for responsible corporations to allow the game to be used on corporate-owned or BYOD devices. We already have real security concerns and expect them to become much more severe in the coming weeks.
As highlighted above, data security is a significant concern. In the first version of the app, the user agreement allowed Niantic to access a user’s entire Google profile and essentially all metadata from the phone’s interaction with its various data signals. While the former issue has been corrected, the app still collects a large amount of data from its users, including contact lists and pinpoint locations.
While some apps are legitimate guides, others are designed to simply spread malware.
This implicates an issue broader than merely the app itself. Users are increasingly downloading third-party apps that promise to help players successfully navigate the game (in other words, cheat). While some apps are legitimate guides, others are designed to simply spread malware. In addition, while the Pokémon Go fad may fade, new software applications that divert employee attention will likely appear, and the same data security concerns will arise. Therefore, a more comprehensive and active approach is needed to address the increasingly dangerous and apparent world of cybersecurity.
All the data an application itself collects as well as the potential for malicious third-party applications form a double-edged sword for employers. Not only is worker productivity compromised, but also, the data systems of the company might be at risk as well. The safeguards against this sort of employee behavior are not as simple as banning certain applications or other blanket restrictions that will no doubt carry unintended consequences.
So, rather than ban the applications as they become known to the employer, good procedures and processes that limit the transfer of information and provide for various levels of verification need to be in place so companies can operate safely, effectively, and legally.
While cyber-planning requires customization and experts, the expense and maintenance of effective cyber procedures is trivial compared to the expense and experts required for a cyber breach.
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Breach of contract disputes are the most common type of business litigation. Therefore, nearly all New York and New Jersey businesses will likely have to deal with a contract dispute at least once. Understanding when to file a breach of contract lawsuit and how long you have to sue for breach of contract is essential […]
Author: Brittany P. Tarabour
Closing your business can be a difficult and challenging task. For corporations, the process includes formal approval of the dissolution, winding up operations, resolving tax liabilities, and filing all required paperwork. Whether you need to understand how to dissolve a corporation in New York or New Jersey, it’s imperative to take all of the proper […]
Author: Christopher D. Warren
Commercial leases can take a variety of forms, which is often confusing for both landlords and tenants. Understanding the different types, especially the gross lease structure, is important when selecting the lease that best suits your needs. One key distinction between lease types is how rent is calculated and paid. This article addresses the two […]
Author: Robert L. Baker, Jr.
Over the past year, brick-and-mortar stores have closed their doors at a record pace. Fluctuating consumer preferences, the rise of online shopping platforms, and ongoing economic uncertainty continue to put pressure on the retail industry. When a retailer seeks bankruptcy protection, a myriad of other businesses are often impacted. Whether you are a supplier, customer, […]
Author: Brian D. Spector
Since his inauguration two months ago, Donald Trump’s administration and the Congress it controls have indicated important upcoming policy changes. These changes will impact financial services policies and priorities. The changes will particularly affect cryptocurrency, as well as banking rules and regulations. Key Regulatory Changes in Cryptocurrency For example, in the burgeoning cryptocurrency business environment, […]
Author: Dan Brecher
The retail sector has experienced a wave of bankruptcy filings over the last year. Brick-and-mortar businesses in financial distress include big-name brands like Big Lots, Party City, The Container Store, and Vitamin Shoppe. When large retailers seek bankruptcy protection, they are not the only businesses impacted. Landlords can be particularly hard hit. While commercial landlords […]
Author: Brian D. Spector
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!