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Secure your Mobile Device

Follow these 10 steps to keep your mobile device secure.

HOW DO I KEEP MY INFORMATION SAFE: MOBILE DEVICES

Ten Steps to Securing Mobile Devices

  • Create a strong password for your device and set it to automatically lock after a short period of inactivity. Set your device to automatically send a timeout and request a PIN/password re-entry, and enable the “erase data” option after a certain number of failed attempts.

  • Keep all software up-to-date including the operating system, software, and applications. Remember to sync often to get available updates, such as security patches or the latest version of applications.

  • Disable services not in use such as Bluetooth, GPS, and geo-tagging. These services can expose your device to unwelcome remote connections when not in use.

  • Be selective about what information goes into your device. Don’t store sensitive information! Store as little personally identifiable information on your device as possible.

  • Encrypt your device.

    • Ensure you have a lock screen PIN/password set up.

    • Enable the “erase data” setting.

    • Go to “Settings” “Security” and click the Encrypt option (For Androids; iOS devices are already encrypted).

  • Only download applications from well-known trusted sources (e.g., the Apple Store and Google’s App Store).

  • Make sure to use anti-virus/anti-malware software for your device. Set it to auto-update as frequently as possible.

  • Use public wireless networks cautiously, especially unencrypted networks. Set devices to “ask” before joining wireless networks. Turn off Wi-Fi when not in use.

  • Turn off cookies and auto-fill. Go to “Settings” “Privacy” and click “Block Cookies” and uncheck the “Auto-fill” option.

  • Back up your data regularly in case it gets lost or stolen. Install an app for you to find, lock, or wipe your device remotely. If lost or stolen, immediately change all passwords.

Jul 24, 2017