How do I remotely wipe a lost business phone?

If the phone is enrolled in MDM (Mobile Device Management) like Microsoft Intune, you can remotely wipe it from the admin console. Without MDM, use Find My iPhone (Apple) or Find My Device (Google) signed into the company account. Both allow you to erase the device remotely.

Should every business phone have MDM?

Yes. MDM is strongly recommended for any business providing mobile phones to employees. It allows IT to enforce security policies, remotely lock and wipe lost devices, push app updates, and manage settings across the entire fleet from a single dashboard.

Business Mobile Security: Protecting Company Devices

A lost or stolen business phone is more than an inconvenience — it is a data breach waiting to happen. Company emails, customer information, cloud documents and financial data can all be exposed. Every business providing mobile phones to employees needs a clear security strategy.

The Risks of a Lost Business Phone

Data exposure: company emails, contacts, documents and credentials stored on or accessible from the device.
Customer data breach: if customer records are accessible, you may face regulatory obligations under UK GDPR to report the breach within 72 hours.
Financial fraud: banking apps, payment tools and expense accounts on the device could be misused.
Reputational damage: a data breach erodes trust with clients and partners.

Prevention: Securing Devices Before They Are Lost

Essential Security Measures

Measure	Why It Matters
Strong passcode or biometrics	Prevents immediate access to the device. Require a minimum 6-digit PIN or fingerprint/face unlock on every company phone.
Enable Find My / Find My Device	Allows the phone to be located, locked and wiped remotely. Should be enabled on every device before deployment.
MDM enrolment	Mobile Device Management gives IT full control: remote wipe, policy enforcement, app management and location tracking.
Device encryption	Encrypts all data stored on the phone. Enabled by default on modern iPhones and Android devices, but verify it is active.
Two-factor authentication (2FA)	Even if a password is compromised, 2FA prevents access to business accounts without a second verification step.
Automatic screen lock	Set screens to lock after 30 seconds to one minute of inactivity.

Security Policies for Staff

Never leave devices unattended in public places.
Do not share unlock PINs or passwords.
Report a lost or stolen device to IT immediately — delays increase risk.
Do not install apps from outside the official app store.
Keep the phone operating system and apps updated to patch security vulnerabilities.

When a Business Device Is Lost or Stolen

Your IT team or mobile administrator should follow this response plan:

Remotely lock and wipe the device via your MDM platform. This can be done instantly from the admin console.
Block the SIM by calling the network provider. This prevents calls, texts and data use on your account.
Report the IMEI as stolen to the network. The phone will be added to the national blocklist.
Revoke access to cloud services. Remove the device from Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, VPN and any other business platforms. Force a password reset on the user's accounts.
Report to the police and obtain a crime reference number.
Assess data breach obligations. If personal data may have been exposed, consult your Data Protection Officer about ICO notification requirements.

MDM Solutions for Business

Mobile Device Management is the cornerstone of business mobile security. The leading platforms include:

Microsoft Intune — integrates with Microsoft 365, ideal for businesses already using the Microsoft ecosystem. Supports iOS, Android and Windows devices.
Jamf — the industry standard for managing Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac). Deep integration with Apple Business Manager.
VMware Workspace ONE — a comprehensive platform supporting all major operating systems with advanced analytics.

What MDM Can Do

Enforce passcode and encryption policies across all devices.
Remotely lock, wipe or locate any enrolled device.
Push app installations and updates silently.
Restrict access to certain apps or websites.
Separate personal and work data on BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) phones.
Generate compliance reports for audits.

Connection Technologies MDM Service

Connection Technologies provides a fully managed MDM service, taking the complexity out of device security. We handle setup, policy configuration, monitoring and support so your IT team can focus on other priorities. Combined with our managed IT services and business mobile plans, we offer end-to-end protection for your mobile workforce.

Need to secure your business mobile fleet? Connection Technologies provides MDM, device security and managed IT services. Get a free quote or call 0333 015 2615.