Yandex Browser for organizations replaces traditional MAM solutions.

      The mobile Yandex Browser for organizations has been significantly updated, gaining a set of features that allow it to compete on equal terms with Mobile Application Management (MAM) solutions. The new capabilities are specifically designed for companies where key work services run directly in the web browser.

      Among the key innovations are root/jailbreak detection and security checks, protection against policy bypass, a secure storage in technical preview, and password protection for the app itself. Together with existing leak protection and digital watermarking features, the browser enables secure operation.

      How it works in practice

      Root/jailbreak detection helps the IT department determine whether an employee is using a device with unofficial firmware. Such devices, while giving the user more freedom, are considerably more vulnerable to malware. The security check feature assesses whether the device meets the company's requirements — for example, whether it has antivirus software and lacks critical vulnerabilities. If a device is deemed unsafe, the browser can restrict its access to corporate data.

      To prevent employees from bypassing these rules, anti-policy-bypass protection is in place. IT specialists can configure the corporate network so that it can only be accessed through the secure Yandex Browser. Any other application used to access the internet will be blocked.

      Files are protected using a secure storage. It guarantees that corporate documents can only be opened on trusted devices and only within the browser itself. This is especially relevant when employees use personal smartphones and tablets for work. And if a device is left unattended, the new password required to launch the browser will prevent unauthorized eyes from seeing confidential information.

      An alternative for web scenarios

      These innovations open the door for the browser in companies that work extensively with temporary employees and contractors. For such workers, deploying full-fledged MAM systems—which require time and money—is impractical. It's much simpler and faster to provide them with a secured version of the browser, which already becomes the single point of entry for email, messaging apps, and internal systems.

      “Traditional MAM solutions are undoubtedly powerful, but in a world where all key applications run in the browser, they can be excessive,” comments Dmitry Majartsev, Director of Information Security for Yandex Browser for organizations. “If all work is done through the browser, then the browser should be protected first. In such web scenarios our browser can replace MAM without loss of security and without unnecessary costs for additional software.”

      Thus, the update makes Yandex Browser for organizations an economically advantageous and technologically viable replacement for traditional approaches to mobile application management.