What You Can Do to Avoid Mobile Security Threats?

Upon reading Mobile Security Threats that You NEED to Know About (Part 1) and Mobile Security Threats that You NEED to Know About (Part 2), you may be scared of the threats that roam around the internet.

But there’s NO need to panic. You can actually do something to protect yourself from these threats. In this list below, I will be sharing some helpful tips:

1. Update your software.

   • Everything on our phone needs to be updated in order to have the best protection. So, from your operating system down to your messaging apps, always keep them updated.
   • Sadly, in Symantec’s 2018 Internet Security Threat Report, they indicated that only 20 percent of Android phones are using the newest version. Moreover, only 2.3% are installed with the latest release.

2. Add a mobile security.

   • Like your desktop computer, your phone will also need some security. Install a mobile security software on your phone, and be sure this is from a verified source. Don’t just install something unheard of.
   • If you run a business, ask your employees to make sure their mobile security apps and other tools are regularly updated.

3. Install a firewall.

   • Speaking of security, most phones do not have a firewall protection by default.  So, installing a firewall will make your defenses agents these threats stronger.

4. Add a passcode on your phone.

   • Next, always add a password. Remember, theft or actual loss of your mobile phone can also be a cause of a data breach.
   • For those who manage a business, please tell your employees to use unique passwords. Often times, people just repeat the same password across all accounts.
   • Hence, make the business accounts safe and private by password protecting these data.

5. Get apps from official app stores.

   • To be sure, download only from official stores like Google Play and Apple App. Buying from these stores will not guarantee you won’t get a bad app. However, it will lowers the risk of downloading one.

6. Know what the terms are.

   • After you click on install, there will be a list of things you allow the app to do. These could be accessing your storage, your camera, and so on.
   • Before installing an app, know the terms and conditions. Of course, you won’t be able to read through the whole T&C. At least, know what you are agreeing to.
   • Check the permissions you are giving these apps.  You can enable and disable these permissions at any time. If apps tend to be invasive, don’t install them.

7. Use a messaging app that supports end-to-end encryption.

   • Business communications should be kept private. Hence, you and your team should be communicating through an encrypted line. Be sure to use a tool that supports end-to-end encryption. This way, outsiders can’t access classified information.

8. Uninstall inactive apps.

   • Lastly, check the apps on your phone regularly. Do you still use it? Are they still active? Do the developers still update it? IF NOT, then, it’s time to remove them. Keep the number of apps as fewer as you can.

Hoping you’d be trusting enough

Don’t get fooled and always follow these common-sense precautions. Teach your employees on how to be cautious on the internet and how to use their mobile phones safely. It’s time to take mobile security seriously.

Mobile threats can come from anywhere. Contact Omnipotech Support Center to know more about cybersecurity and the other solutions in order to make your business secure. Call Omnipotech at 281-768-4800!