Tips for mobile security

As mobile devices get more and more popular, the risks posed by hackers has increased. Many users of laptops, smartphones, and other devices are unaware of the threats that are out there. However, there are simple precautions and measures that can be taken to ward off any unwelcome visitors to your network or anyone who would compromise the information on your computer. Here are three tips for mobile security:

1. Be wary when using public Wi-Fi connections
When a bunch of people are sharing a similar Wi-Fi hotspot, it is not uncommon to accidentally stumble onto someone else's connection. Usually, most people will apologize and move on - there is no temptation to tamper with or steal anyone's information. Sadly, not everyone is honest and there are risks to your mobile security.

One way to secure your computer when sharing a public connection, is to use encryption. Most public wireless networks don't provide any kind of encryption measures, so it is up to the user to take care of this. Any information you send via email should have SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption. You should also only be using sites that have this same kind of encryption if you are giving private information, like a credit card, bank account numbers, or social security numbers.

An easy way to make sure that the site you are using is secure is to check your web browser. If the site is secure, you should see a little lock icon. This shows that there is some level of encryption used on the site. Sometimes, you can also tell the level of encryption by the color behind the lock icon. A click on this icon will explain the level of encryption.

If you're using a public Wi-Fi connection and want to access your companies corporate sites, you need an extra security element. For corporate purposes, your mobile device should have VPN (Virtual Private Network) software. If your company doesn't have or provide this software, it is definitely worth looking into with a VPN service provider.

2. Use antivirus protection on all mobile devices
Most people have virus protection software on their home computers and laptops. Many people, though, don't consider installing the same software on their PDA's, phones, and other wireless devices. This can be done easily and without much expense. Also, just as you are aware of suspicious emails and links sent to your laptop, you should be equally suspicious of anything sent to your mobile device that seems odd or unfamiliar. If something looks suspicious or if you don't recognize the sender, it is worth staying on the safe side and deleting it. If it is important, chances are, the sender will notify you and re-send it.

3. Choose Ethernet over Wi-Fi
If you're like many business people, you probably find yourself on the road on business trips, staying in a hotel. Many hotels use Wi-Fi as a selling point to draw business travelers to their hotel, while some only have an Ethernet connection available. While Wi-Fi in a hotel allows more flexibility and mobility, the Ethernet is faster and more secure. If you want to take the necessary precautions with a public Wi-Fi connection, then it is a good option. However, if you are concerned about the nature of the information you are sending or what is saved on your computer, you may want to exclusively use Ethernet. Hackers will have to do a lot more to hack into a hotels Ethernet connection, whereas a hacker only needs to be in an adjacent room if you use Wi-Fi.

Many people are very careful when it comes to mobile security with their laptops, but the other mobile devices are often ignored. However, if these three simple steps and precautions are used, the chances of your mobile devices being compromised goes down dramatically.

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Categories: Cell phones, Security,

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