Smartphones are a lot like the Beatles; followed by a few when they first came out, and now people who aren’t familiar with them are met with confusion. Smartphones are how we store contact information, keep our schedules, and settle debates with our friends over whether or not a certain actor was in a movie while we’re out to dinner. Not only that, but for many entrepreneurs, smartphones are how they accept credit card payments, send invoices, and handle business on the go.
These devices have become part and parcel of how we do business, and run our lives. Which is why it’s important to keep them secure whenever possible.
Tip #1: Install Security Software
It seems like an obvious first step, but it’s one that many smartphone owners completely skip. While most devices come with some form of protection, it pays to invest in something a little more heavy-duty. This is especially true if your mobile device is going to be used for business purposes, and not just for keeping your personal life in order. Security software can prevent unwanted access, stop you from clicking on harmful links, and prevent malware from getting a toehold on your device. Put another way, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Tip #2: Encrypt Your Data
While it sounds like something out of a day-time spy drama, data encryption is actually pretty common these days. Basically, it puts your data in code, and it can’t be read by anyone who doesn’t have the right cipher to understand that code. This means that even if your information does fall into the wrong hands, they won’t necessarily be able to read it. While it probably isn’t necessary for your texts to your grandmother, encryption can help you sleep a little easier when it’s time to tuck your business data away.
Tip #3: Use A Difficult Password
While it is a big pain in the behind, password strength is really important when it comes to keeping your smartphone safe. If someone tries to access your phone, you don’t want them to be able to guess that the key is “1234”. A password that’s difficult to guess might be a pain to key in every time you want to check your messages, but it’s a step you’ll be glad you took if your phone winds up in the hands of someone who wants to steal your information, and identity.
Tip #4: Install A Remote Wipe
While it might seem like something out of a thriller, or a comic book, remote wiping is a pretty common security protocol for people who value their privacy. All you need to do is download an application that will allow you to wipe your phone’s data from a remote location. That way if your device is lost or stolen, all you have to do is log on, and tell the program to clear all your information.
Of course, it’s also a good idea to have an app that lets you locate your device remotely, too. That way you don’t wipe prematurely.
Tip #5: Stay Away From Strange Networks
On the one hand, it’s true that you could probably get away with never using data thanks to how commonplace public Internet access has become. On the other hand, though, it’s a bad idea to use a network you aren’t familiar with. Especially if you’re doing business on it. If you want to keep your device clean, only use Internet from networks you trust, and if you’re not sure, just use your paid-for data.
For more tips and tricks to keep your smartphone secure in the modern age, simply contact us today!
