Geofencing and compliance in restricted areas

Enforce location‑based policies that automatically restrict cameras, file sharing, or network access when devices enter sensitive zones such as test labs or export‑controlled areas. IBM MaaS360 supports geofencing, real‑time location tracking, and audit‑ready reporting.

Scenario

Supported platforms: Android iOS Windows

Devices entering test laboratories, research and development areas, or export-controlled zones must automatically restrict camera usage, file sharing, or network access to protect intellectual property and help ensure regulatory compliance.

What IBM MaaS360 does

  • Geofencing policies:
    • Define geographic boundaries for restricted areas.
    • Automatically apply policies when devices enter zones.
    • Remove restrictions when devices exit zones.
    • Support multiple geofence types (circular, polygon).
  • Location-based restrictions:
    • Disable camera in confidential areas.
    • Block file sharing and cloud storage.
    • Restrict network access to approved systems.
    • Prevent data exfiltration.
  • Asset control:
    • Track device location in real-time.
    • Enable lost mode for missing devices.
    • Generate location history reports.
    • Alert on unauthorized zone entry.
  • Compliance enforcement:
    • Audit device activity in restricted areas.
    • Generate compliance reports.
    • Enforce export control regulations.
    • Document policy violations.

Implementation steps

  1. Map restricted areas:
    • Identify all zones requiring access controls
    • Define geographic boundaries by using Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates.
    • Document compliance requirements for each zone.
  2. Create geofencing policies:
    • Configure geofences in the IBM MaaS360 portal.
    • Define restrictions for each zone (camera, file sharing, network).
    • Set up entry and exit actions.

    For more information, see Managing secure locations for a device.

  3. Test geofencing:
    • Walk through restricted areas with test devices.
    • Verify that policies activate correctly.
    • Confirm that restrictions are removed upon exit.
  4. Deploy to production:
    • Apply geofencing policies to all device groups.
    • Communicate restrictions to users.
    • Provide training on compliance requirements.
  5. Monitor and audit:
    • Review location tracking reports.
    • Investigate policy violations.
    • Update geofences as facility layout changes.

For more information on portal administration functions, device management, software distributions, policy self-service, and device compliance functions, see IBM MaaS360 Portal.

Expected outcomes

  • Stronger intellectual property (IP) protection: Automatic restrictions prevent data leakage
  • Regulatory compliance: Export control and confidentiality requirements met
  • Monitor and audit: Automated enforcement eliminates security checkpoints
  • Audit readiness: Complete tracking and reporting for compliance audits