Maintain a Security Mobile Device

In order to maintain a secure mobile phone, make sure you keep it updated with the latest anti-virus software. When you update the software on your mobile phone, this prevents vulnerabilities.

Be Careful of the Links You Click  

Recently, there was a phishing scam going around that contained malicious links within emails. The emails were targeted at business owners. People were lured to a fake website that supposedly posted negative comments about their business. It was just another scam.

In reality, this is nothing new, phishing attacks and scams are conjured up daily by ruthless criminals. They’re just waiting for the right moment to swindle mobile users credit card information and other private information. Avoid clicking on any links that appear suspicious.

Install a Mobile Phone Security Application

Hacking an iPhone, Blackberry, Android or any other mobile device is becoming easier and easier for criminals. People often wonder how a criminal hacks a mobile device. The question is not how does a criminal hack a cell phone, but how can you prevent hackers from invading your phone privacy.  In order to protect yourself, you need a robust security mobile device application.  When you install a mobile phone secure encryption chip, like TrustChip by KoolSpan, you can safeguard your data and protect against threats.

Protect Your Mobile Phone from Spyware

Imagine someone downloading spyware onto your corporate phone to track your location, text messages, phone usage and banking activity? This may sound like a scene straight from a sci-fi movie but it has happened to many people. There are several free apps that you can download in the iTunes store or Android Market. However, if you use your mobile phone for your business, it is highly recommended that you install a robust security mobile device solution that provides optimal security.

To find out information about security mobile device solutions, contact us or call 240-880-4400.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security.  We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

Not only do we need to protect ourselves from the damage that might come from it being lost or stolen, there are also malware threats to be wary of as you might expect on your laptop or desktop computer.  It is far wiser to be proactive in safeguarding your phone against mobile phone security risks than to be reactive when your security is breached.  Mobile device security risks are as varied as the devices we carry, but the primary solution is in one thing – mobile device security.

There are several apps available that protect your phone from data loss if the device is lost or stolen.  Most of them feature the same basic abilities to help guard against cell phone security risks like data theft, unauthorized phone usage, and simply misplacing your phone.  For the simple, or sometimes not so simple, the problem of locating a misplaced phone is not easy.

Several apps offer the ability to login to their website and send a signal which causes the phone to emit a loud alarm.  The device can also be located on a map viewed on the website.  If at that point you were to determine you were subject to further mobile device security risks because your phone had fallen into the wrong hands, a command to lock the device or even wipe the data from it could be issued.  The good news is that there’s nothing to fear in having to take such a drastic measure because most of these apps also back your data up on a scheduled basis to a secure server.  Once you receive a replacement device you can retrieve your contacts, pictures, and other valuable information and restore it to the new device.

An anti-virus software is another app that can be installed on your phone to guard against mobile phone security risks like viruses and other malware.  They work by scanning your phone’s contents on a regular basis to search out suspicious files.  Most can also be set to run instantly by the user if a suspicious text or email link is received.  Some add more features which will allow you to lock certain apps and back up data.  These software apps are a valuable tool in the fight to guard against the mobile device security risks that are growing daily.  Don’t take the security of your phone lightly, protect your device today.

To find out how to prevent mobile device security risks, contact KoolSpan at: 240-880-4400.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security.  We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

Bethesda, MD. – May 14, 2012

Washington SmartCEO magazine announced today that KoolSpan is a 2012 SmartCEO VOLT Award honoree. The VOLT Awards celebrate the distinguished achievements of Greater Washington’s leaders in technology. Collectively, the companies represented in the program generate $5 billion in revenue and employs over 17,000 people. KoolSpan and the other 2012 VOLT finalists are profiled in the May 2012 issue of Washington SmartCEO.

KoolSpan was nominated in the Cyber Warrior category, which recognizes leading organizations for protecting their customer’s information and digital infrastructure. The VOLT Awards also recognizes the accomplishments of Greater Washington pioneering Technology Innovators and Technology Implementers. All finalists are recognized for their company’s creative vision, leadership philosophies, innovative strategizing and undeniable work ethic.

“KoolSpan is pleased to be recognized among the elite technology leaders in Greater Washington,” said CEO Gregg Smith. “We have worked extremely hard to earn the trust of our partners and customers and create the most innovative data encryption technology for the mobile market. We would like to thank SmartCEO for acknowledging our achievements.”

Winners will be announced at the Washington SmartCEO VOLT awards ceremony on May 15, 2012, at the National Press Club in Washington, DC. More than 300 local C-level executives and guests will attend to celebrate both the finalists and winners achievements.

This year’s VOLT finalists have greatly contributed to the growth of the regional economy as well as global. Collectively, they channel unique innovation, success-driven implementation, an extraordinary competitive advantage and efficient operations,” says Jaime Nespor, Group Publisher of SmartCEO magazine. “We are privileged to share in their success.”

For a complete list of winners, visit http://www.smartceo.com to check out the digital edition of the May 2012 issue. Nominations for the Volt awards closed in early February. Contact Kelly Whalen to find out more about next year’s nomination process.

About SmartCEO
Washington SmartCEO magazine is a regional publication for growing companies, aimed at providing features, analysis and case studies each month to educate and inspire Greater Washington’s thought leaders. Our readers range from young, dynamic companies to established, multi-generational family-owned firms.

About KoolSpan:
KoolSpan is a leading innovator of data encryption and security products optimized for the mobile market. Its microSD-based TrustChip® mobile encryption engine is a critical component to mobile security solutions and has been tested and deployed in 40 countries worldwide. TrustChip secured solutions enable the protection of applications, operating systems and mobile devices; are FIPS 140-2 Validated, and deployed by government, enterprise and offered by leading wireless operators to protect sensitive communications. For more information, visit http://www.koolspan.com.

Satellite phones have encryption algorithms that have been set by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) and two of the encryption methods, known as GMR-1 and GMR-2, have been decoded using hardware that is easy to obtain by anyone. The built-in cell phone encryption is in place to encrypt incoming and outgoing phone calls. Flaws that were discovered by the two researchers make it easy now for someone to be able to intercept and listen in on satellite phone calls.

While the average satellite phone user is unlikely to be affected by the breach in encryption, it is always a good idea to install additional encryption layers on your phone for protection. You can install software on your phone that will supplement the built-in mobile phone encryption that is already in place.  If you are unsure if your phone is protected, you can take your phone to a specialist who can take the phone apart and inspect it thoroughly.

If you use your satellite phone on your satellite internet service, you can purchase hardware that will add an extra layer of protection for the devices on your network.  Mobile satellite service is delivered over voice over internet protocol service that is similar to other VOIP service.  You can add another layer by getting a secure VOIP server for cell phone encryption.

As technology advances, ways to circumvent security also advances.  Faster computers and sheer diligence are creating circumventions faster than ever before.  When cordless telephones were new on the market, someone cracked the DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) encryption system that was used to encrypt transmissions between the cordless handset and the base.

Then encryption system for GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) cell phones was cracked, which was used in second and third-generation cellular networks.  Afterwards, the encryption system for the GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) was cracked, which encrypted telephone calls and text messages.  Now that mobile satellite encryption has been cracked, cell phone encryption technology will need to discover ways to secure mobile phones.

To find out information about cell phone encryption products by KoolSpan, call 240-880-4400 or contact us via email.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security.  We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

How Do You Know if Someone is Eavesdropping on Your Mobile?

If you suspect you are being eavesdropped on, start by determining how valuable a target you are in business. The more important information you know, the greater the risk you are of someone eavesdropping on your calls.

One of the most common signs that cell phone eavesdropping in happening is, in fact, your battery life starts to last for shorter periods of time. This is due to the fact that your phone is constantly sending information to whoever is eavesdropping on your phone.

You may start to hear a buzzing sound during a phone call. You may also hear noises coming from your handset when it is not in use. These are signs that someone may be eavesdropping on your conversation. If your phone rings and no one is on the other end or you hear a faint beep, this is an indication that there is an extender on your phone line so that an outside party can listen in on the call.

What Can You Do About It?

If you suspect you are a prime target for being tapped, you will need a secured mobile phone solution to make sure no one has access to your phone conversations. One way to prevent eavesdropping is to make sure it is in a safe place where intruders can’t gain physical access.

In addition, a secured mobile should be locked with a password so that in the event someone does get a hold of your phone, they would need a password to use the phone.

To make a secured mobile out of a phone that has already been tapped, start by removing the battery when you are not using your phone. This can prevent your device from recording or transmitting any information. In addition, take your secured mobile to a professional and have any software that may be malicious removed from your device.

If all else fails, you may have to invest in a new secured mobile with a new phone number. With a new phone, you can start fresh by making sure you protect it from potential eavesdroppers.

To find out information about KoolSpan’s secured mobile solutions, call 240-880-4400 or contact us via email.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security.  We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

What makes this situation more frightening is the fact that phone hacking instructions can be found on the internet for any dishonest person to access.  Therefore, it is crucial for people to to set up security for mobile phones.  In this past year alone, more than a billion cell phones have been hacked due to the fact that they were unprotected, according to experts.  Most cell phone owners weren’t even aware they could install security for mobile phones.

Today, cell phones have become so smart – they are more like computers than phones.  This has left them wide open to hackers who now have good reason to want to hack unprotected cell phones.  Before a person is even aware their phone has been hacked, the criminal has access to all their private information. This is why security for cell phones is so important for users.

Another common hacking method, also known as “the man in the middle”, allows a criminal to hack into a mobile phone’s operating system and then reroutes all the data to a third party who is just sitting there waiting to utilize stolen information.

Some cell phone hackers can even have a device perform this when a mobile phone is turned off, which makes all mobile phones vulnerable for attack.

You can avoid this from happening to your phone. Regardless of whether you own an iPhone, Android, Blackberry or other wireless device, you can protect your phone with a variety of mobile security products.

Contact us or call 240-880-4400 to find out more information on our security for mobile phones.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security. We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

In order to use this type of system, all you need to do is type in a cell phone’s IMEI number from the package, when purchased and by pressing #06# into keypad. The number that appears is a cell phone’s IMEI number. If the phone is lost or stolen the owner can report it to the police and it will be flagged. Although this may seem like a good way to secure your phone, it is not 100% guaranteed your private information is secure.

Today, people keep a record amount of invaluable personal material on their cell phones; therefore it is extremely important that people secure cell phones against falling into the wrong hands, loss, or theft. Today’s modern technology can leave your phone exposed to many damaging attackers. An example of this would be someone abusing your calling plan to something as extreme as accessing your bank accounts.

Modern cell phones not only allow you to make calls, but they also enable you to send email, text messages, photos, and access the internet. Cell phones are no different today than most laptop computers, and store a significant amount of information. Surprisingly, most people who have laptops make it their business to ensure their laptop is secure, yet many of those same people do not secure mobile phones in case it is lost or stolen.

To secure cell phones, is not much different than securing a laptop. You need to encrypt it with a password and use safe internet protocols when browsing the web, sending emails, or sending photos and text messages. Understanding that technology is available today to send viruses which can leave your cell phone open to malicious websites is crucial to safeguarding your personal information and your cell phone.

At KoolSpan, we have developed mobile phone encryption technology to safeguard your mobile phone devices. With TrustChip, we can remotely destroy or stun a TrustChip if your mobile device is lost or stolen. The average mobile security solutions available on the market can’t compare to our secure cell phone technology.

If you’re concerned about cell phone security, contact us or call 240-880-4400 for more information on how we secure cell phones.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security. We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

1. Be Wary of Downloads: When you are on your personal computer you avoid clicking on pop-up ads and suspicious emails. To maintain security on your mobile device you need to practice the same precautions. Install virus protection on your mobile device and use it to scan for viruses and malware.

The most important download to be concerned with is where and how you download apps. Some of your favorite apps and games might be free, but to ensure mobile phone security you want to only download these from trusted secure sources. Do not click on unsolicited links offering free downloads because this may leave you vulnerable to malware.

2. Wireless Safety: Think of protecting your mobile device as you would your PC or laptop at home. Avoid using public unsecured WiFi signals available at many coffee shops, restaurants, or even schools (if possible). Having an unsecured signal can affect the security on your mobile device by leaving you more vulnerable to hackers. Also, make sure you turn your wireless Bluetooth off when not in use.

Another simple way to ensure security on your mobile device is to make any operating system updates offered as these include fixes and offer enhanced security.

3. Physical Protection: The simplest way for a person to hack your mobile device is when you leave it unattended. Put a password to maintain security on your device. Make the password difficult, and change it often. If you should lose your phone – do not delay in contacting your service provider. They can possibly place a temporary suspension on your plan so if someone else has possession of it they will not be able to easily log in and view your personal information. However, this is not 100 percent full-roof. With TrustChip, you have more control over security on your mobile device.

In addition to adding physical security to your mobile device with passwords, you can protect your cell phone and decrease hacking by regularly switching out your SIM card. The service provider can identify the user by the SIM card, but this can take up to several months to register on their system. Updating the SIM card can reduce your chances of being targeted by hackers.

Contact KoolSpan to find out more information about security on your mobile device at: 240-880-4400 or contact us via email.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security. We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

1. Strange Activity

The easiest way to detect if your phone is being tapped is to pay attention to any odd activity that your phone may suddenly start experiencing. If it lights up, shuts down, turns on, or downloads applications by itself, it’s possible that your device is being controlled. This may also be due to interference during data transmission, so be able to differentiate. It’s difficult to maintain the security of mobile devices if you can hardly control your phone.

2. Background Noise

It is very common for a tapped phone to experience background noise while you are on a call. Static and clicking are frequent sounds, but may also be due to a faulty connection. However, if you hear an oscillating static from your phone while it’s not in use, chances are the security of your mobile device is at risk. If in question, hang up and redial.

3. Battery Temperature

Although not a sure-fire sign, a hot battery may be an indicator that someone is using your phone remotely. If you are already having suspicions, quit using your mobile device for a while and examine it later on in the day. If it feels hot, this could mean your phone has been tapped.

4. Phone Not Charging

If you have been using your phone as you normally do, but the device will not charge properly, it may be due to conversations continuously being recorded. It is recommended to make sure that there is not a separate issue with your phone’s battery or the charger.  You don’t want to misconstrue information and worry over nothing. However, the security of mobile devices cannot be determined primarily on the phone not charging.

5. Unexplained Billing and Text Messages

Another hint that your phone may be tapped is if you have received text messages from unfamiliar numbers containing unidentifiable symbols or if there is a dispute in the phone bill concerning unexplained usage.

Pay attention to these hints if you are unsure of your cell phone security. If you are experiencing a multitude of these indicators, it is possible that your phone has been tapped. It is recommended to take the battery out and use another phone until you can get it repaired.

Find out more information about KoolSpan cell phone security products by calling 240-880-4400 or contact us via email.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security.  We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.

• Be sure to ask the right questions.  A telemarketer is required by law to inform you that it is a sales call, the name of the seller attempting to get your business, and what they’re selling. If the person is hesitant about giving you his/her information, stumbling over words, or attempting to distract you from what you originally asked, it is probably not legitimate and you should hang up immediately. Cell phone security protocols can sometimes be a little difficult to adhere to, but this is a simple solution.

• Be aware of fine print. If the stipulations sound suspicious or you’re unsure of what you’re actually signing up for, be wary. Cell phone security may be a little tricky, but is always manageable. It is easy to get drawn in, so it’s important to know everything about the product you are potentially interested in purchasing. Be sure to ask if there are any hidden fees. If something is advertised as free, it should be just that—free.

• Do not give out sensitive information. Most scammers are familiar with cell phone security, so it’s important to make sure you are, as well. If asked to text your Social Security number or to “confirm” your billing information during a call, it is likely they are attempting to backdoor you into something or to steal your identity. If you feel uncomfortable at any time during the conversation, it is likely you have a good reason to feel that way.

• Know the laws and utilize them. If a telemarketer is blatantly breaking the law, they are not interested in your well-being and they should not be trusted. If you do not want a business to call you back and you say so, it is illegal for them to contact you again. Also, laws only permit telemarketers to call between the times of 8:00AM and 9:00PM. If you feel you are unsure of how to keep yourself safe, you can add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry.

Cell phone security is to be taken seriously, so do all that you can to protect yourself against the latest scams.

Contact us or call 240-880-4400 to find out more information about KoolSpan cell phone security products.

KoolSpan, Inc. is a leader in mobile security.  We provide secure connectivity solutions for network devices.