My mom recently had to install something called a BYOD script on her personal computer for her job, and I'm really worried about privacy issues. Initially, it caused her to get locked out of her main accounts, but we resolved that using her work IT login. The IT guy claims he can't access her personal files, but I have my doubts. He made changes to her computer in real time by coding from his end, which makes me think he might have more access than he's letting on. I'm in the process of moving her important files, but since I'm not super knowledgeable about cybersecurity, I'm looking for insights on the potential risks involved with this software. What should I know?
3 Answers
That 'BYOD script' probably installed monitoring software, allowing the IT guy to have admin access. Even if he claims he can’t view her personal files, he technically could, depending on what was installed. The fact that she got locked out of her accounts and needed IT’s help is a serious red flag. You're doing the right thing by moving her files. Once that's done, a factory reset of her computer would be the safest move, keeping work and personal stuff separate from now on.
Definitely a no-go. Companies should supply her with a work PC to avoid these issues.
As a former sysadmin, I can tell you I refuse to do BYOD. It can change settings on your computer that may not be fixable, so it's better to provide approved work devices instead.
You hit the nail on the head. I couldn't even manage her files without his access when I was trying to help.