Here are five mobile phone security tips that you should know. Whether you use an iPhone, Android, Blackberry or other Smartphone, you should remember these tips.
1. Use a password!
Consider using a password both to access the device itself and additional passwords for any applications that may contain personal (or business) information. Yes, these should be different passwords. Remember, the use of a password (or numeric PIN) prevents a thief from making unwanted calls and texts from your phone and from accessing your data. Odds are, that is why many devices are taken in the first place. There is no excuse not to do this. Note that some devices, such as an iPhone, allow you to have a “auto-destruct” option. That is, if someone attempts to guess the password and gets it wrong, say 8 times, the information contained on the phone is deleted.
2. Know your apps.
Make sure the apps you download come from a reputable app store. Do not casually hand over your location or address book – which many apps will ask for or attempt to take without your knowledge. There have been a growing number of instances of malware on some Android apps. Consider purchasing a smartphone security software solution to protect yourself against malware and other attacks.
3. Update your phone.
As with your Mac or PC, Smartphones have periodic updates. These may include the latest security patches and fixes the company has to offer. If you have an “app phone” such as iPhone or Android, remember to update your apps as well.
4. Know your connection.
You may not want to use public Wi-Fi, for example. If you do, remember not to use the connection for credit card purchases, banking, or remote access to critical data.
5. Be mindful of what you store on your phone.
As you use your device for more and more tasks, it becomes easy to forget the variety and volume of information it can contain. Work information, passwords, credit card details. If you do keep these on your device, take advantage of secure wallet applications and other security tools available to more securely protect them.
Bonus!
Do not leave your device unattended. Remember, whether you acquired the device under a phone contract or paid for it upfront, most Smartphones cost between $200 - $600. The devices themselves have value to the bad guys.
Call 240-880-4400 or contact us to learn more about KoolSpan’s Smartphone security solutions.
KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security. We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.
