As our lives become increasingly more remote and location independent, the need for mobile devices is on the rise. Many Australians enjoy using multiple mobile devices – such as a smartphone, tablet and computer – to live their lives. Whether it’s responding to work emails, transferring money to a friend or tracking your steps on a fitness app, we’ve become reliant on our portable devices to get the job done.
Phone security is quickly becoming a hot topic as more and more people adopt remote working and choose not to solely use a desktop computer. Let’s take a look at mobile security, why it’s important and what you can do to stay safe online.
Why mobile security?
Mobile security is what protects you online when you’re doing things like sending emails, shopping and using social media. And if you happen to lose your device, mobile security is what you can use to lock it down so no one can access your sensitive data.
There are a few different types of mobile security options, such as anti-theft protection, antivirus and anti-phishing, with options for Android and Apple devices, too.
What kind of mobile security risks are out there?
The risks to mobile devices and wireless security evolve and get more complex each and every year as technology continues to improve. To help you understand the dangers and keep an eye out for the warning signs, let’s take a look at some of the main risks:
Unsecured Wi-Fi networks
Mobile network security is a big deal. Wi-Fi networks that aren’t secure – they aren’t password protected and are publicly available – are more risky than those you use at home with encryption. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network in a cafe or airport, any personal details stored on your phone or tablet can be at risk if the network is compromised.
Outdated operating systems
It’s important to keep your phone or tablet’s operating system up-to-date to prevent cyberattacks. To increase your phone security, make sure you’ve got the latest version of your operating system and apps.
Malware
Malware is a type of software designed to cause harm to a device. When a mobile phone, tablet or laptop is connected to the internet via Bluetooth, USB or Wi-Fi, it’s susceptible to malware transfers. You can use security software to help manage this risk and protect your devices from this kind of threat.
Lost or stolen phones
If you lose your phone, lend it to a friend to use or it’s stolen, it’s at risk of a security breach. Make sure you know where your devices are at all times and take steps to protect your personal data, like using additional password protection.
Anti-theft solutions
If the unthinkable happens and you can’t find your device, there are some actions you can take (both before it goes missing and after) to keep your personal information safe.
Location tracking
Depending on what device you have, you can track a phone or device marked as missing using GPS. This is handy if you’ve lost your phone or believe it may have been stolen.
Automatic camera snapshots
Many devices have the security option to take photos from either the front or back camera and send them to your email. If you suspect someone has taken your phone, you’ll be able to use the photos to identify who has it and where they are.
Be proactive
Make sure you set up passcodes on your devices and activate multi-factor authentication where possible. Planning ahead and layering on these mobile security features set you and your devices up for success in the long run!
Personalised on-screen message
You can set up your device so that it displays a custom on-screen message if you mark it as missing. This message should include a way to contact you, like an alternative phone number or email address.
Do you need Antivirus on your phone?
Installing Antivirus software can help improve your phone security and give you peace of mind when you’re online and using the Internet. Antivirus software is often quite affordable and can perform the following tasks and more:
- Real-time scanning: Your antivirus software can scan incoming emails, websites and messages to make sure they’re safe.
- On-demand scanning: If your phone starts acting strangely, you can use Antivirus software to do a quick scan to see what’s happening on your device.
- Anti-Phishing: This feature can help you avoid any scam websites as your Antivirus software will flag websites if they seem unsafe or may steal your personal information.
Stay safe on-the-go with the Geeks!
We can set up your computer and network security, as well as your iPhone and tablets, so you stay safe online and make the most of your devices.
or complete our form today to set up an appointment with a computer repair technician
