Adoption of Bring Your Own Device: Challenges and Risks in Higher Learning Institutions in Kenya

Abstract

In the digital world, consumerization of Information Technology has motivated individuals to privately acquire the latest mobile technology devices to access the organization/institution networks to perform their formal duties, a phenomenon also known as bring your own device (BYOD). The popularity of BYOD in learning institutions has been accelerated by perceived benefits of work flexibility, increased productivity and efficiency, dynamic student and employee preferences and technology trends and advancements. It has been noted however, that BYOD adoption compromises the general security of organizational information resources. This paper explores the challenges and risk factors of BYOD adoption in higher learning institutions and recommends mitigation strategies for the same.