By 2017, the number of smartphone
users in the U.S. is expected to surpass 200 million, maybe even higher.
With all the different apps and information stored on your smartphone, the thought of it being stolen or compromised probably worries you. How do you make sure your phone stays secure? By understanding the risks
and taking steps to reduce them. Below are
some key actions you can take to help minimize the likelihood
of a successful cyber attack.
Regularly update your device.
Mobile malware increased 75% from 2013 to 2014, and this percent is expected to increase in 2015, particularly in mobile ransomware. Updated
operating systems and security software are critical in protecting
against emerging threats.
Enable encryption.
Enabling encryption on your
smartphone is one of the best ways to safeguard information stored on
the device, thwarting unauthorized access.
Use a passcode.
In case your phone ever does fall
into the wrong hands, don’t make it easy for someone to access
all your important information! Use strong password
protection on your device and include a timeout requiring
authentication after inactivity. Secure the smartphone
with a unique password - not the default one it came with. Do not
share your password with others.
Do not use public Wi-Fi.
Do not log into accounts and do not
conduct any sensitive transactions, such as shopping or
banking, while using public Wi-Fi. Disable the “automatically
connect to Wi-Fi” setting on your device.
Install applications from trusted sources.
Last fall, Gartner issued a
prediction that more than 75% of mobile applications will fail
basic security tests through 2015. When downloading apps, be proactive
and make sure that you read the privacy statement, review
permissions, check the app reviews and look online to see if
any security company has identified the app as malicious.
Install a phone locator/remote erase app.
Misplacing your device doesn’t have
to be a catastrophe if it has a locator app. Many such apps allow
you to log on to another computer and see on a map exactly
where the device is. Remote erase apps allow you to remotely
wipe data from your device, helping minimize unauthorized access
to your information in case you cannot find your phone.
Disable unwanted services when not in use.
Bluetooth and Near Field Capabilities (NFC) can provide an easy way for an unauthorized user near by to gain access to your data. Turn these features off when they are not required.
Carefully dispose of mobile devices.
With the constant changes in the
smartphone market, many users frequently upgrade to new
devices. Make sure you wipe the information from your smartphone
before disposal. For information on how to do this, check
the website of your mobile provider or the manufacturer.
Using apps on your smartphone is a great way to save time and be more efficient throughout your day, just make sure you take a few steps to keep your phone secure and safe!
