1. Use Anti-Malware protection and tracking apps for your mobile devices.
Malware is malicious software design to invade and cause damage to your computer or phone, without your consent. Everyone knows there is anti-malware protection software for computers, but many often overlook protection for their phones as well. There are security apps for mobile devices with features like URL blocking, remote wipe, and device location. Certain tracking apps will also allow device-wiping to protect any sensitive information you may have stored on your phone.
2. Make sure your software is up to date.
We all know the pains of installing those dreaded operating system updates, and many of us choose to put off software updates in fear of the changes to our mobile devices. However, these updates are a necessary evil that often contains important security patches from any recently discovered threats. If you’re someone that puts off your updates, enable automatic updates. This will ensure that you’ll always have the latest security updates. Some devices will also allow you to schedule updates during a period of time that your device is not in use, so you’ll never have to stand by for updates when you’re in a time crunch.
3. Disable Bluetooth when it’s not in use.
Bluetooth capabilities have grown exponentially, allowing easy connectivity and conveniences, but it also leaves us vulnerable to many threats. Data thieves can take advantage of active Bluetooth connections to “monitor” your device and potentially give them access to your sensitive data. Your device may offer an “invisible” mode, but turning off your Bluetooth function is the only way to completely prevent access to the device.
4. Encrypt your mobile devices.
Encryption does more than protecting someone from accessing any information left on your device – it makes that information unreadable, useless. Face it, no matter how careful we can be, sometimes we just misplace or leave our items unattended. And although they may have pin codes or passwords, hackers can easily find their way around it. Encryption ensures that even if your device gets lost or stolen, the thief will be unable to access or use your information. While data encryption is typically done on laptops or notebook computers, some handheld devices are also capable of data encryption through apps. Take a look at this article by Digital Guardian for more information.
For more tips on how you can protect your data, visit our post from last year’s Data Privacy Day!
Source: Digital Guardian’s 101 Data Protection Tips
Related Links:
What is Social Engineering?
Identity Theft: Prevention Tips
How to Spot a Phishing Email
