Mobile devices, from smart watches to phones to tablets, are everywhere. They've changed the way we live, act, communicate, and do business. They're convenient and usually useful, but there are threats you and your mobile devices could face everyday.
Here are some tips to better secure your mobile device.
USE STRONG PASSWORDS - Change ALL default passwords on your mobile device to something that's difficult for someone to guess. Use a different password for different programs and devices. Never let your device save your passwords!
UPDATE OFTEN. PATCH OFTEN - Install updates for apps (usually your device will do this for you) and your device’s operating system as soon as they are available from your provider or manufacturer. Keeping the software current will prevent attackers from being able to exploit known vulnerabilities.
DISABLE BLUETOOTH - Mobile devices are equipped with wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth and NFC, that can connect to other devices as far away as 30 feet. Disable these features when you're not using them.
WAIT TO POST ON SOCIAL NETWORKS - Don't post pictures from trips and events in real time so that people do not know where to find you. You're letting them know you're not home AND giving them information for social engineering attacks.
DON'T LEAVE IT UNATTENDED - If you want to prevent theft and unauthorized access, NEVER leave your mobile device unattended in a public place. That $1000 iPhone X is very tempting. And lock it when you're not using it.
KNOW YOUR APPS - Always review and understand the details of an app before downloading and installing it. Apps may request access to your location and personal information and potentially expose it. If you don't recognize an app or don't use it, delete it.
USE MDM (Mobile Device Management) - Most companies offer an MDM for company and BYOD devices to secure it and encrypt it, in case it gets lost or stolen. Most MDM can also track devices to help you find it.
DON'T USE FREE WI-FI - Public and "free" Wi-Fi are unsecured and can expose your device to hackers trolling in them. Anyone can scan all the devices on a Wi-Fi network and "sniff" the traffic to collect information. Use your data plan instead.