SAFETY TIPS FOR
MOBILE DEVICES
Stay #CyberAware While On the Go
Your mobile devices – including smartphones, laptops and tablets – are always within reach everywhere you go, whether for work, travel or entertainment. These devices make it easy to connect to the world around you, but they can also pack a lot of info about you and your friends and family, like your contacts, photos, videos, location and health and financial data. It’s important to use your mobile device safely.
The first step is to STOP. THINK. CONNECT.
STOP: make sure security measures are in place. THINK: about the consequences of your actions and behaviors online. CONNECT: and enjoy your devices with more peace of mind.
PERSONAL INFORMATION IS LIKE MONEY. VALUE IT. PROTECT IT.
- Secure your devices: Use strong passwords or touch ID features to lock your devices. These security measures can help protect your information if your devices are lost or stolen and keep prying eyes out.
- Think before you app: Information about you, such as the games you like to play, your contacts list, where you shop and your location, has value – just like money. Be thoughtful about who gets that information and how it’s collected through apps.
- Now you see me, now you don’t: Some stores and other locations look for devices with WiFi or Bluetooth turned on to track your movements while you are within range. Disable WiFi and Bluetooth when not in use.
- Get savvy about WiFi hotspots: Public wireless networks and hotspots are not secure, which means that anyone could potentially see what you are doing on your mobile device while you are connected. Limit what you do on public WiFi and avoid logging in to key accounts like email and financial services on these networks. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) or a personal/mobile hotspot if you need a more secure connection on the go.
KEEP A CLEAN MACHINE:
- Keep your mobile devices and apps up to date: Your mobile devices are just as vulnerable as your PC or laptop. Having the most up-to-date security software, web browser, operating system and apps is the best defense against viruses, malware and other online threats.
- Delete when done: Many of us download apps for specific purposes, such as planning a vacation, and no longer need them afterwards, or we may have previously downloaded apps that are no longer useful or interesting to us. It’s a good security practice to delete all apps you no longer use.
Created by the National Cyber Security Alliance
Made possible in whole by a grant from the Digital Trust Foundation
About STOP. THINK.CONNECT.
STOP. THINK. CONNECT. is the first – ever coordinated message to help all digital citizens stay safer and more secure online. The message was created by an unprecedented coalition of companies, nonprofits and government organizations. In 2009, the Anti Phishing Working Group and National Cyber Security Alliance led the effort to find a unified online safety message that could be adapted across public and private sectors. The is to help every one under stand the risks and benefits that come with using the Internet.
About Waterdog Computer Works
Located in Devon, Pa, Waterdog Computer Works is a complete IT solutions and cybersecurity provider serving businesses throughout Main Line Philadelphia. Focused and responsive, Waterdog Computer Works offers a two-hour emergency response time guarantee, no-risk contracts and a team of technicians with over 75 years of combined experience. Call us at 484.352.4380 to speak to a member of our team.
