They might not have been such a threat before, but mobile devices are becoming a popular entry point for cyber attackers. Your smartphone houses some of your most sensitive, private data.
Don’t fall victim to a costly and dangerous attack. Here are six steps you can take to keep your information secure.
1. ALWAYS Lock Your Screen
Shockingly, more than 30% of smartphone users don’t even use a password-protected screen lock on their devices.
Petty theft is a common occurrence around the world, and cell phones are a primary target.
Leaving your mobile device unlocked puts you at risk for losing all of your personal information. This could lead to consequences ranging from inconvenient to devastating.
Using a password to lock your device’s screen – and even internal folders – is a simple way to protect yourself from identity theft.
2. Stay Away from Public Charging Ports
Your USB port is for more than just charging your phone’s battery. It’s also a 2-way avenue for information.
Plugging your devices into unknown USB ports leaves them vulnerable to infiltration or corruption from malicious users. Public charging stations could be housing viruses and harmful malware.
When in doubt, it’s better to stay safe and stick to familiar charging ports.
3. Turn Off Wireless
Unless you’re actively using your bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection, try to keep it turned off.
Unknown wireless networks are notorious malware carriers, and it can be nearly impossible to decipher an infected connection from a harmless one.
Keeping your wireless functions off when not in use will reduce your chances of inadvertently connecting to a corrupted wireless network.
4. Use Cell Phone Monitoring Service
If you want high-level protection without an arduous commitment, cell phone monitoring is a quick and easy way to enforce stringent security standards with minimum interference.
Specialized professionals oversee the rollout from start to finish, managing the implementation and functionality of antivirus software, organizational programs, verification processes, and more.
If you manage multiple devices, this is an especially helpful tool to keep your phone safe and organized.
5. Never Surf Without a VPN
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the best way to keep your data safe and out of plain sight.
By sending information through a secure public or shared network, unauthorized users are no longer able to collect your data during the digital transaction.
This is ideal for anyone who accesses medical, financial, or work-related information online.
6. Use Two-Factor Identification
Using a password is a good start, but adding another layer of authentication will make your devices immensely more secure.
Two-factor identification includes a variety of method combinations, such as a text message, password, and biometric verification.
The more steps you require to login to your device, the safer your information will be.
Mobile devices are becoming more advanced everyday, but online attackers and malicious users are keeping up. Taking a few of these measures will help you to keep your information protected and in the right hands.
