Top 7 Tips For Securing Your Device

This month we are celebrating National Cyber Security Month! Each week we’ll tackle a different topic dealing with online security, cyber bullying and staying safe online. This week’s topic is how to keeping your mobile devices secure. So here are 7 tips to boost the security of your mobile devices and your data on them.

Never Leave Your Device Unattended In A Public Place

A common and much overlooked threat is leaving your devices unattended in public. This includes laptops, USB storage devices, tablets and smartphones. In a moment’s notice someone could take your device and all of your data and information on it. It is always important to stay aware of your surroundings.

Password Protect Your Devices

Having a strong password will help keep your devices secure from unauthorized users. If someone else gets their hands on your device, the password lock screen will at least keep them out from accessing the device. It is vital to make a strong password so it cannot be easily guessed. Try mixing letters with number and symbols; on some mobile devices you can even add patterns.

Enable Two Step Verification

Having Two-step verification is an additional security feature that can prevent unauthorized users from accessing your data. This way if you’re account becomes compromised; the unauthorized user will not be able to do certain tasks without that second form of verification. Apple, Google, Microsoft and other companies offer Two-step verification as standard security measure.

Use Internet Security Software

It shouldn’t come as surprise, but using some form of internet security software will come in handy when it comes down to keeping your devices secure. Even though most PC and Mac have their own built in security software, it is worth a second look into buying a 3rd party software for extra protection.

Check App Permissions Before Downloading An App

When downloading apps onto your mobile devices you should always double check the app permissions. Some apps may need to access your camera library, or your camera, microphone, contacts or GPS location. It is important to understand why this app would need access to certain things on your phone, laptop or tablet. If you are not comfortable with that permission, then simply do not download that app.

Restrict Usage To Secure Wi-Fi Networks

When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, understand that their network is not as secure as what you may think. When you connect to an unsecured network you are vulnerable to hackers and anyone else who is connected. This is why you should try to use your own mobile data if you are in public, and only connect to public Wi-Fi’s at a reputable location.

Backup Your Device Regularly

Of all your devices, your mobile ones are at the highest risk of being stolen or lost. Luckily companies like Apple, Microsoft and Google makes it easy to keep data backed up in the cloud and in most cases it’s automated. Having that backup will not only help you in the case of a lost item but in the case of your device failing. You should also backup your data on an external Hard Drive as an extra backup.