Employers who allow use of smartphones for business have approximately a 30% higher risk of being victims of identity theft and about 60% of smartphone users do not password protect their devices.
It is vital that the sensitive data often stored on these tiny devices is protected:
- PASSWORD: The most important way to ensure that your mobile device is secure is to password protect it, and to keep track of where it is at all times.
- REMOTE LOCKING: Download features that provide remote locking of the device, and allow data to be erased from the hard drive. These services vary depending on your service provider, and type of smartphone you have.
- MALWARE: Protect your device from “malware” or malicious software programs. Malware for cell phones can put the consumer’s personal and financial data at a higher risk of compromise. Talk to your service provide for recommendations.
- OPT OUT FROM DATA COLLECTION: Read privacy policies before downloading apps. Providers often collect personal data from your smartphone without proper disclosure.
- WI-FI: Take care when using Wi-Fi. Do not access or send private data in public places. Deactivate Wi-Fi auto-connect. This will allow you to verify the host you are connecting to is not malicious.
- BLUETOOTH: Turn off Bluetooth when not in use.
- EMAILS: Do not open emails or answer texts from strangers.
- SPAM: Delete spam.