Android devices managed by organizations often use a feature called “Work Profile” to separate work data and apps from personal ones. The Android Cross Profile Policy is a set of controls that governs how information and actions can flow between the work and personal profiles on a device. These policies help organizations protect sensitive data while still allowing users to be productive.
What is a Cross Profile Policy?
A Cross Profile Policy defines what types of interactions are allowed between the work profile (managed by your organization) and the personal profile (owned by the user) on Android devices. These policies are especially important for organizations using Android Enterprise, as they help balance security with user convenience.
Key Cross Profile Policy Controls
The following are the main Cross Profile policies supported:
1. Cross Profile App Functions
Controls whether certain app functions can operate across profiles. For example, it can allow or block an app in the work profile from launching an activity in the personal profile, or vice versa.
Example: Allowing a calendar app in the work profile to open a meeting link in a browser in the personal profile.
2. Cross Profile Copy Paste
Determines if users can copy and paste text or data between work and personal apps.
Enabled: Users can copy text from a work app and paste it into a personal app, or the other way around.
Disabled: Copy-paste actions are blocked between profiles, preventing accidental or intentional data leakage.
3. Cross Profile Data Sharing
Controls broader data sharing between profiles, such as sharing files, images, or other content.
Enabled: Users can share files or images between work and personal apps.
Disabled: Sharing is restricted to keep work data secure.
4. Exemptions To Show Work Contacts In Personal Profile
Specifies exceptions to the rule about showing work contacts in the personal profile. This allows organizations to define certain contacts that can be visible in the personal profile, even if the general policy is to hide them.
5. Show Work Contacts In Personal Profile
Controls whether contacts from the work profile are visible in the personal profile’s contacts app.
Enabled: Work contacts appear in the personal contacts list, making it easier to call or message colleagues from personal apps.
Disabled: Work contacts are hidden from the personal profile, protecting organizational privacy.
6. Work Profile Widgets Default
Determines if widgets from work apps can be added to the device’s home screen in the personal profile.
Enabled: Users can add widgets from work apps to their personal home screen.
Disabled: Work app widgets are restricted to the work profile only.
Why Use Cross Profile Policies?
Data Security: Prevents sensitive work data from leaking into personal apps or accounts.
User Privacy: Keeps personal data separate from work, respecting user privacy.
Compliance: Helps organizations meet regulatory requirements for data separation and protection.
Productivity: Allows safe, controlled sharing where appropriate, so users can work efficiently.
How Are These Policies Applied?
Cross Profile Policies are typically set by your organization’s IT administrator through the Swif.ai console. The policies are enforced automatically on enrolled devices, and users may see certain actions restricted or enabled based on the organization’s settings.
If you have questions about your organization’s Android policies or need help, please contact your IT administrator.