Smartphones, tablets and laptops allow us to work, shop, bank and connect with friends while on the move. However, there are risks associated with our increasing use of these devices.
It is important to take steps to protect the confidential information we store on our mobile devices. Their portability also means they’re more likely to be lost, damaged or stolen.
Top tips to secure your mobile devices
Follow these tips to secure your mobile devices:
- use a PIN, a password or fingerprint ID to lock your mobile device
- enable remote wipe (see locating or wiping a lost or stolen device below)
- back up your devices regularly
- don’t store sensitive, unprotected information on your mobile devices
- only download apps from trusted sources
- keep your devices’ operating system and apps up-to-date
- know the risks of using public Wi-Fi hotspots
- look out for phishing and SMSishing scams
- be aware of ‘shoulder surfing’ when using your device in a public place
- wipe your devices of all data before recycling or selling them
- don’t jailbreak your smartphone as this leaves the device more vulnerable to malware
- never leave your mobile device unattended in a public place
- never leave your device unsecured in a hotel room when you go out – lock it in a safe or take it with you
Secure your device with a screen lock
Using password/PIN-protected screen locks can protect data on your devices if they are ever misplaced or stolen.
- Ideally, change the default settings so you can use longer PIN or password
- Use fingerprint ID or other advanced security, if available
- Set the device to lock or erase data if the wrong password is entered too many times
Find out more about enabling password protection on your mobile devices:
Locating or wiping a lost or stolen device
Take steps to protect your data if your device is ever lost or stolen by enabling features to help you locate your device or remotely wipe all information.
Find out more:
What should I do if my mobile device is lost or stolen?
If your mobile device is lost or stolen, you should do the following as soon as possible:
- if your device has been stolen, notify the police
- for phones, notify your service provider
- use remote wipe functionality, if available
- notify the Helpdesk if you use the device to access University information
- change passwords on any accounts that may have been compromised