Research from the Cloud Security Alliance recently highlighted this shift. The CSA survey found that the threat of lost or stolen devices represents the top data security concern for organizations. Mobile malware also ranks highly on the list at second. While traditional threats, such as insecure Wi-Fi are still in the threat ecosystem, the proliferation of mobile devices has created new risks to the corporate network.

As CSA's research highlighted, the potential risk posed by insecure data on mobile devices is significant and may require a new way of thinking. As a recent Computer Business Review article said, research such as this survey will be critical to developing plans for mitigating the risk posed by new technology. The article highlighted the importance of implementing multiple security solutions, such as supplementing data encryption software with employee training.

"Information-stealing mobile malware, data loss and data leakage through poorly written third-party applications, vulnerabilities within devices, OS, design and third-party applications are some of the other leading concerns found during a survey conducted on 200 enterprises in 26 countries," CBR wrote.

As smartphones and tablets become increasingly common targets for malicious programs, it will become more important for all employees to be aware of current threats and the risk they pose to sensitive information. In addition, IT administrators will have to exercise more vigilance in protecting corporate data that employees store in the cloud and end users access on mobile devices.