Security for Your Smartphone - 6 Easy Tips
Posted by Anthony Pagliaro on Tue, Nov 15, 2011 @ 12:00 PM
Everyone takes precaution when it comes to his or her computer. Whether you buy security software or encrypt your network, you do these things to prevent an attack so no one can get a hold of your sensitive information. Smartphones are getting more and more advanced, to the point where they are pretty much a computer on the go. As so, they should be treated with the same respect by following some basic safety measures that you already take with your PC or Mac. Use these six ways to help keep your mobile device safe.
Use Security Software
There is security software available for personal and corporate use. As soon as I got my first smartphone, I downloaded and installed Lookout Mobile Security. This application is dedicated to protect you from viruses, malware, and spyware. Other software out there that does just about the same thing for your PC and Mac, is Prey. Both of these applications are free for basic use and can offer more security measures for a very small fee.
Lock Your Phone
As simple as it sounds, just by requiring a pin number to unlock your phone you can prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to your phone. Much like any other password you have, make sure no one knows it.
Be Smart
Just because you have internet everywhere you go, doesn’t mean you should be using it! More and more people are using their smartphones like shopping malls and making purchases whenever and wherever. It’s a good idea to refrain from using your cellular network to make purchases or access sensitive information, like your bank account. In addition, you should avoid using public Wifi in the same manner. Although unlikely, someone could gather your information by hacking into the network you use to access your data.
Keep Up to Date with Phone Software
Whether you have an iPhone, Android, Blackberry, or other device, it’s important to keep your software updated. OS providers are constantly updating their software to prevent security threats. Just by updating your phone to the current version, you could help reduce the risk of an attack.
Back up Your Phone
Many phones come with software that enables you to back up you device onto your computer. If yours doesn’t, or you prefer not to do it that way, use applications like Lookout Mobile Security to back up your phone to their cloud-based network.
Avoid Third Party App Stores
There are many third party app stores available for you to purchase applications for your mobile device. We recommend that you do not use such stores. Use your native application store to download all of your applications. Although third party stores have a quality control much like your native marketplace, they may not be as extensive in protecting you. For example, the same time a Netflix app was released, a fake Netflix app was released on third party app stores, which acted in same manner, but stole user’s account information when they logged in.
These six measures can help prevent unauthorized people from accessing your mobile devices. They don’t take long to implement, so there really is no excuse for not taking these precautions. Treat your phone like you would your computer.
Anthony Pagliaro
The Maynard Group
831.465.7728
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