14 Ways to Keep Your Mobile Data Secure

Security Info

Introduction

Mobile devices can be used to store huge volume of data and are thus frequently hacked. They can be easily stolen or lost and an unwanted person may get an access to your information stored if proper precautions and measures are not taken for their security. The intruders may find other ways to get access to your device and rift you off the valuable information that you would never want to be leaked to someone other than you. This may cost you huge financial loss as well as data loss. This may happen if malware is there on your mobile device or during the wireless communications. The result is that your device is useless and also disclosure of classified documents or loss of personal data.

The good thing is that you are concerned about your mobile device and the data stored in it. Mobile devices give you an access to various services available in the internet. You may get an access to a non-public data if you are authorised for it. You may secure your data using strong passwords for your device or security certificates that are used to distinguish your device from others in the comity.

Risks Associated With Mobile Data And How To Keep Them Safe:

When considering risk with mobile devices, we need to remember, that mobile devices are just that mobile. This means the following devices are covered:

  • Mobile phone
  • Tablet
  • Laptop

1. Security Features

Every mobile device has its own security features. The specific security features of your mobile device depend upon the operating system that you’re using. However, it is important that you use the best features for your mobile data security. More modern devices with the latest Operating System (OS) are preferred.

2. Risk of Loss

There is always a risk that your mobile device may be lost or stolen. The moment you have bought a new device, label it with a code word and an alternate phone number. So, that even if it is lost, the person who finds it may contact you on your phone number and knows your security code word, this will identify them as someone who has your phone. The label will also help you even if your device’s battery is dead.

3. Configure a PIN or Passcode

Configure a personal identification number (PIN). This will help you in preventing unauthorized people gaining access to your device and its data. Setting a passcode, password or PIN is really effective and can be done easily. Your Password must be at least five digits long and needs to be kept secret in the same way you keep your email password secret from others.

4. Auto-Timeout Lock

Set an auto-timeout that will lock your mobile device automatically when it is not in use. This will also help you in your efforts to keep the strangers away from your device.

5. Latest Software Updates

Your Device may be attacked by hackers if it doesn’t have up-to-date software installed on it. To keep your mobile data safe from intruders always keep the software up-to-date. Your operating system including different apps must be updated regularly (at least once a week).

6 Never Jailbreak

Jailbreaking your device is not advisable. Never do that! Jailbreaking your device and rooting it removes the protection that your device comes with against any Malware, Viruses and Trojans.

7. Use Authorized App Store

If you want your mobile data to be safe and your business to flourish, you must not download apps from unauthentic sources on the web. Always use Google Play, Amazon App Store or Apple iTunes Store, Windows Phone Store etc. This will help you in your fight against malware, which is usually distributed via unauthorized channels.

8. Use Managed Environment

Enrolling your mobile device in a managed environment will help you maintain as well as configure your privacy and security settings.

9. Encrypt Data

Encrypting your device is very important. In the event of loss or theft, the data on the device cannot be accessed if the data is encrypted and you have a passcode. However, not every mobile device supports data encryption. You may refer to your device’s documentation or go to online support resources for encryption.

10. Enable Remote Erase

It is easy to delete or wipe your data from an encrypted device after it has been stolen or is lost if accompanied with services like “Find My iPhone” or management services.

11. Enable Auto-Lockout

Many devices come with lockout option. This is an option where the mobile device gets automatically locked if several unsuccessful attempts have been made to enter the PIN or password. It is better that you set your lockout option at 5 attempts.

12. Enable Auto-Wipe

There is yet another option that is called “Auto-wipe”. This is an option more secure than lockout. If you are running a larger business and you have created a backup of your mobile data on a cloud storage service or your computer’s hard disk, this option is ideal. After the several unsuccessful PIN or Password attempts your device will erase all the data automatically that is stored on it and will reset it to default settings. This makes the device worthless from the perspective of data theft.

13. Bluetooth Devices

Another risk associated with mobile data usage is use of Bluetooth devices. Identity theft is a relatively new phenomenon. Hackers may try to gain access to your device through a Bluetooth device. Keep your Bluetooth device off when not in use.

14. GPS Location Data

Disable your GPS service unless you are using it. This protects your privacy and makes it harder for a hacker who has breached your device to know where it is physically located.

Summary

Follow these simple rules and you’re data will have a much better change of staying yours!


Help

Mobile data Security, on phones, tablets or laptops; and the process, procedures and support documentation and training as all specialist areas for DVANA. We’re more than happy to help you with any concerns you might have with:

  • choosing the right mobile devices
  • fitting those devices into the business
  • securing the mobile devices
  • training employees on safe data security practices