How Do I Protect My Mobile Devices?
- Password lock your phone - You should always secure your phone with a unique PIN or password. Never share this password with others.
- Keep software updated - Smartphones, like computers, often require software updates. These updates provide better functionality and also fix critical security vulnerabilities. You should install these updates as soon as you are notified by your service provider. You can also change your phone’s settings to install updates automatically to ensure you are getting updates as soon as they occur.
- Only download reputable files from the app store - Online downloads are one of the top ways you can become vulnerable to scams, viruses and other unwanted malware. A good rule of thumb is to only download files from an app store or the website of a trusted company, no matter how tempting an application may be. Additionally, you should assess and consider how reputable the app is by looking at the number of downloads, ratings, user feedback, and quick web search of the application to collectively assess the safety of the application.
- Keep your device with you - Because mobile devices are so portable, one of the biggest threats is loss or theft. Always, keep your mobile device with you or ensure it is locked away safely. Never set it somewhere and walk away, even momentarily.
- Back up your files - Ensure you are always properly backing up all essential files to another appropriate location.
- Read Smartphone Security Measures; this article provides great suggestions for protecting your devices.
Protecting Specific Mobile Platforms
Android
Lookout is available from the Android market and provides antivirus and remote wipe (this feature must be set up before the phone is lost) features. If you store passwords on your phone, protect them in a password vault like KeePass.
iOS (iPhones and iPads)
If you store passwords on your phone, protect them in a password vault like KeePass. For a lost or stolen iPhone, Apple provides Find My iPhone (this feature must be set up before the phone is lost).
Disposing of Mobile Devices
Erase your mobile device before disposing of it. Most mobile phones and tablets have built-in tools for erasing data. Check the device's user guide for instructions.