Being Mobile: Seven Security declarations individuals should make in 2015

The countdown is over and confetti has been cleaned up. We all have set of New Year resolutions for 2015 i.e., to eat healthier, be more planned or even revive good habit whether at work or the personal life.

One such resolution can be related to something that is not only an extension of us in personal lives but also lifeline for many Indians in their work life i.e., the mobile device.

Mobile devices undoubtedly have been become an integral part of lives, as the no. of mobile Internet users in India is expected to reach a 213 million by June 2015. Driven by the strong adoption of cheaper Smartphone diffusion, affordable data plans and need to stay connected; this number is expected to increase by 40 million in next six months. The beginning of Bring the Own Device in recent years as provides flexibility and business profitability, has turned personal security concerns into the corporate one with unprecedented increase in endpoints leading into the slew of possible security threats.

This year, as responsible individual let us resolve to keep the critical eye on that shiny, new mobile device, by following few resolutions to up our mobile security game.

Don’t leave the device unattended

Don’t leave the Smartphone or tablet unattended in public. It only takes few seconds for someone to use open device to collect the login information and copy passwords. Someone can also send out an email from the official id, so make sure to lock your screen even if you’re going to be away from your device for short while. Nothing can be more an embarrassing then spamming the professional contacts.

Put a password on it

This is one important way to avoid an unauthorized access, yet too many of them use simple passwords that are easy to guess. Also, configure the device to automatically lock after period of time. Do not write passwords down, commit them to memory.

Install mobile anti-malware on the device

This might seem unnecessary, as most of the people does not realize that the mobile devices are equally exposed to viruses, spyware, malware etc. as PC/laptop. In India, 57 % users are not aware that security solutions for mobile devices exist, while 63 % have experienced some form of mobile cybercrime in the past 12 months, as per Norton Report 2013. As mobile becomes the fastest growing target for cybercriminals with complicated attacks such as ransom ware, identity theft and spear phishing becoming reality. Therefore, it is mandatory that to install an anti malware protection that establishes security perimeter around the device to notice the existing and emerging mobile threats and keep the software updated. This way, no matter what bad guys have up their sleeves, can keep the information and device safe. Opt for reliable product to do this job.

Backup your data

Most of us have firsthand experience and or have heard of someone who had their mobile device stolen, or their account locked, leading them to lose their files such as contacts, images, music playlists etc. One way to avoid such heartbreaks is to regularly back up files. It is relatively easy to do, and many devices have the capabilities to backup the data wirelessly, so can quickly restore the information on the device if the data is lost or accidently deleted. If lose the device, should be able to swipe the data off phone and retrieve the information on an another device.

Examine an apps standing before downloading

Shop and download an apps from trusted app markets after reading few reviews and ratings. While apps ask for an access to many features on the device, many users do not examine these permissions carefully. This allows the malicious app developers to persuade users to grant a unnecessary permissions accessing the identify, gallery, contacts, location etc. Beware of an implication before granting an access.

Scan Wi-Fi hotspots and Bluetooth devices before connecting

Do not allow an automatic connections. Some of the mobile devices are set up to automatically connect with an available Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices. Disabling this option will prevent the phone from connecting and transmitting data without the knowledge.

Keep tab on who has access to the device

The way households connect to Internet has changed a considerably in recent years. Users who use their devices for a personal and professional purpose must be well aware of who all have an access to their device. According to 2013 Norton Report, 66 % of consumers use their personal device for work and play. While 51 % of parents let their kids play, download & shop on their work device. Such practices must be avoided. Remember, the protection should focus on the information and not just the device.

Photo credit: Ron Bennetts / Foter / CC BY-ND

Being Mobile: Seven Security declarations individuals should make in 2015