5 More Mobile Security Tips

A cybercriminal’s full time job is creating new crimes, and he or she will make full use of technology to hide their activities to fool you. And with mobile devices, this is no different.

The threat to our mobile devices is also high because our smartphones are always connected, they usually carry some personal data, and they are even equipped with small cameras, microphones, and positioning devices (just like the spies carried in old movies). And because there are more built-in devices options (like cameras and microphones) compared with computers, it makes the operating systems and apps more complex, increasing the way that cybercriminals can take advantage of any security holes.

But you can focus on doing some things that will help you be more secure when using your mobile devices. We provided five tips here and now here’s five more:

1. Be careful when “checking in” on social sites: Facebook, FourSquare and other geo-location programs are fun and sometimes you can score some deals for “checking in” at locations, but you also want to be cautious of letting people know where you are – especially if you’re away from home. And you also may want to consider disabling the GPS (global positioning system) on your smartphone or tablet so your photos don’t’ have latitude and longitude information embedded into them when you share them.
2. Don’t remember it-forget it: Don’t set user name and passwords to be remembered in your mobile browser or in apps and make sure you always log out of accounts when you access them. And like on your computer, make sure you use strong passwords and different passwords for each of your accounts.
3. Be careful what you share: Yes it’s fine to stay in touch with our friends and family via social networks, but be careful what you share. Even if your privacy settings are set to only let your friends see the information, it’s best to take the approach that once something is online, it lives forever. Think if you’re really ok with your grandmother or boss to see that update, picture or video.
4. Don’t text or email personal information: While this might seem pretty basic, we may find we need to share credit card numbers or personal details with another person. But this should be done via a secure site or app or use your mobile’s other function (the basic phone part). Emails and texts can be intercepted and then your information can fall into the wrong hands. Also remember that legitimate organizations like banks will not ask you to text personal details like that so if you see requests like that, it’s most likely scam.
5. Turn off your Bluetooth: If you’re not using this connection, it’s best to turn it off. Not only will this help save your battery life, but it prevents hackers from accessing your device through this technology. Many devices are preset to use default settings that allow other users to connect to your device, sometimes without your knowledge. In some cases, hackers can access a phone’s contacts, calendar, text messages, and more.

Robert Siciliano is an Online Security Expert to McAfee. He is the author of 99 Things You Wish You Knew Before Your Mobile was Hacked!  (Disclosures)

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