We rely on our phones to process and store reams of personal digital data. But we are never really taught the importance of mobile security. It’s easy to forget that your mobile phone is essentially a pocket-sized computer and that, just as with any device that can connect to the Internet, mobile phones are at risk of a cyberattack. Here are 5 mobile security tips to help keep your device safe in 2020:
1) Always Keep the Phone Locked
A phone lock is there to prevent people accessing your information if your device is stolen. Whether this is a passcode, pattern, fingerprint or face recognition is up to you and your device’s capabilities. When enabling a screen lock, always choose the shortest amount of time idle before locking, just in case you regularly forget to lock it manually. Many devices also have a feature that if a password attempt fails a certain number of times, the phone will lock, disable, and in some cases even erase all data.
2) Set Strong Secure Passwords
Setting strong passwords on your apps will make it harder for a hacker to guess them. It’s also suggested to set a different password for each app. This way if one password is discovered, the hacker won’t have access to all your information.
3) Ensure the Device is Always Up to Date
Mobile phone updates not only update your device to improve your overall experience, they also can contain vital performance and security updates. It’s very easy to click ‘remind me later’, but it’s important to stay up to date with these. To check if your phone’s software is up to date, go to “about phone” or “general” and click “system updates” or “software update.”
4) Only ever Download Application’s from Vendor Application Stores
When you are downloading apps, always be sure to download them from the official app stores. Cybercriminals often try to trick users by creating rogue mobile apps that are copies of trusted brands in order to obtain confidential information. To avoid this trap, look at the reviews, last update and contact information of the organisation.
5) Only connect to Secure WIFI Networks
The beauty of mobile devices is that we can access the internet anywhere and everywhere we go. Often, one of the first things we do at a restaurant or friend’s house is ask them for their WIFI password. While free WIFI can save us on data, it’s important to be wary of unsecured networks. To stay safe while using public WIFI, be sure to connect to a virtual private network or VPN.
Whether your phone is one you’ve had and used for years, or you are getting a new one for Christmas, its security should not be overlooked. It could be beneficial to install an MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution to remotely manage all aspects for the phone – even down to performing a remote wipe if the phone is stolen.
An MDM subscription can be used for all mobile devices, phones, iPads and PCs and can be purchased for all family owned devices. If you would like more advice on mobile phone security, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated team of experts about MDM on 01923 228820.
