How to Keep Your Mobile Device Secure

Your mobile devices need security measures in place, just as your computer does. This includes your smartphones, tablets, and wearables. All are vulnerable to cyberattacks as well as theft. They can be hacked, have malware installed, and now, phishing attempts are appearing in messages.

Typically, most people have a PIN, password, or swipe in place on their phones to restrict access in case anyone happens to pick up their phone or tablet. However, since your mobile devices can be attacked in other ways, you need to have additional security measures for defense.

Security measures to include on your mobile devices include:

• Make sure your PIN, password, or swipe is working and changed frequently. Avoid sharing your devices, if at all possible.
• Install antivirus software just as you do with a computer and keep it updated. This is an excellent way to keep malware off of your mobile devices.
• Install software that empowers you to lock, locate, wipe, or turn off your device. These features may be available on your phone already or be part of your antivirus software.
• Password protect your “Mobile Hotspot”. A secure Mobile Hotspot enables you to access the Internet without having to use a public wifi network. If you are in a situation where you have to give your mobile hotspot access to others, change your password before letting them know what it is, and then change it again as soon as they’re finished.
• Keep your operating system up to date. When your manufacturer sends an update or upgrade, implement it right away since most contain additional security or patches. Do not change your operating system.
• Beware of phishing attempts. Do not click on links that you don’t know or create a sense of urgency. For example, a current mobile phishing scam is “A Package is Waiting for You” or a similar notification, but then it includes a malicious link for you to click.
• Backup your device. Particularly if it contains information you want to save, such as photos, chats, and contacts, so if something happens, you don’t lose them.
• Check your usage stats regularly. If your battery tends to not hold a charge for very long or if your usage rates are high, you may have malware or a bad app installed on your phone. Also, check your text messages on your monthly bill to see if anything has been sent that you’re unfamiliar with, especially from overseas phone numbers.
• Wipe your device clean before you resell, recycle, or exchange. Your device should come with a “reset” feature to do this. (Make sure to perform a backup of your device before resetting).

If you or your employees need help protecting their mobile devices, computers, or networks, contact us at Midnight Blue. Our team is here to support your office and remote workers, including any BYOD they may be using. Please fill out our online form, send us an email, or call us at 412-342-3800.