I'm curious about whether mobile web filtering is a standard practice for devices like employee phones, especially in settings like government or schools. When these devices are connected to the cell network (like 4G or 5G), is their web traffic typically monitored for inappropriate content using the default browser? What are the best practices regarding this, and how widespread is this practice among larger companies? I have a hunch that it's rare to see all traffic routed through a company VPN on mobile devices.
4 Answers
Absolutely! We filter everything on all devices, regardless of where they are used.
In my experience in the K12 sector, filtering is very common for devices like laptops and Chromebooks. However, phones aren't as often issued, so filtering for them isn't as widespread.
If it's a corporate device, web filtering outside the office network is quite common and highly recommended to prevent potential MITM phishing attacks. Companies are usually more concerned about inappropriate content than you'd think!
We use DNSFilter to block unwanted sites on mobile devices. For iPads and phones, we specifically restrict adult content and some streaming or gambling sites. This setup is mainly for iOS devices through MDM, as we don't have many Android devices left.
True, it's a bit of a gamble what they really care to control, but they definitely care!