The Information Security of a Bluetooth-Enabled Handheld Device

Bluetooth connectivity allows workers to access information anywhere, including both personal and corporate information. Software and applications have been specifically developed for handheld devices such as PDAs, giving users a high level of usability and functionality. The goal of this paper is to present an information security evaluation of a Bluetooth enabled handheld device, such as a PDA. The use of Bluetooth wireless technology and functionality provides added benefits, but also brings new information security threats to organisation’s information assets. The research attempts to understand the implications of using a Bluetooth enabled handheld device in both public and private environments. Five high-level layers are defined for this discussion. Security risks are evaluated based on current research into vulnerabilities, attacks and tools that exist to compromise a Bluetooth enabled handheld device. Possible recommendations to mitigate identified security risks are also suggested.