Using pagers is a little unusual in this age of smartphones. Still, for certain industries that require reliable, short-burst communications sent and received from a tiny device, they’re instrumental.
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After all, when a message must get through, it’s far more likely that a secure SMS will arrive quicker than a longer email or telephone call. This is because the data requirement and connection speed don’t need to be impressive for a short message to arrive intact, even when a phone call isn’t connecting.
What Secure Pagers Make Sense?
A pager service makes sense as the fastest means of receiving messages and, with two-way pagers, sending secure messages between two people. While there are other secure messaging options like mobile apps, it depends on the security of the smartphone or tablet whether the messaging is as fast as possible.
When using a Spok T5 or T52 pager, there is zero question about their inherent security because they’re self-contained with no software updates or other downloads that could contradict their safety.
The HIPPA Act relates to healthcare patient data security but has broad implications for other industries. It leads the way with sensible processes and procedures required to maintain HIPPA compliance even in industries or organizations that don’t fall under the healthcare banner.
Encryption is an important component of any secure messaging system. In this case, Spok pagers use the widely adopted AES standard algorithm with a 128-bit key. For sending basic text messages in secure messaging, more is not required.
What Modern Pager Features Are the Most Useful?
Mobile pagers have come a long way in recent times. Here are some of the useful features that the better secure pagers offer:
One-way or Two-way messaging – Some models offer a one-way receipt of messages, whereas the more advanced models permit two-way messaging for sending back replies or confirmations.
Lockable Device – A lock on the screen prevents someone from looking at what’s displayed on it after some time. It’s also possible to keep a secure pager turned on and receive messages but with the screen lock enabled.
Message Encryption – Secure AES 128-bit full encryption protects messages in transit.
Remove Unlocking – When users have forgotten their unlock code, Spok Customer Services can unlock their pager remotely.
Remove Data Wiping – Where a pager has been lost or stolen, it can be remotely wiped to prevent tampering or access to the data.
Which Industries Find Pagers Helpful?
The most obvious industry that benefits from secure pagers is healthcare. The finance sector is also a strong contender, whether at or out of the office visiting a company where they have an ongoing investment. Discussions about important and prospective clients can happen without concern over security or competitor interference.
Various governments, governmental organizations, and emergency services benefit from using pagers for secure, mission-critical messaging. But really, any organization that requires fast, safe communications without reliance on bulkier smartphones might find pagers useful.
Sending and receiving secure, encrypted messaging takes many forms as businesses and governmental organizations seek new ways to protect their data. With pagers, what’s old is new once again with a delightfully small and discrete form-factor too.
