Atlanta managed IT security services know that everyone in the Atlanta and Marietta GA area has a smartphone. Having a phone is part of our daily lives. Technology has advanced and mobile phones make our lives easier, and tasks more efficient.
There is no secret that the technology we use can make us a target for viruses and cyber-attacks if not appropriately secured. Our phones don’t usually come with a manual explaining how to avoid cybersecurity attacks and how to protect your device.
5 mobile security tips to keep your smartphone safe
Everyone uses a smartphone in their everyday life. Each phone holds lots of vital data contacts, photos, and even health data. It’s important to learn how to keep this data safe. Here are 5 tips from your Atlanta managed IT security services, for keeping your phone safe and secure.
#1. Keep your smartphone locked
One of the biggest threats to your smartphone data accessed illegally is if your phone doesn’t have a lock set on it. There are several valid smartphone lock methods; whether this is a passcode, pattern, fingerprint, or face recognition is up to you and your device’s capabilities. Just be careful not to use overly simplistic patterns or obvious PIN codes such as your year of birth or an easily guessable sequence of numbers.
#2. Set strong passwords
Remember; always be extra careful with your passwords. Many people set very obvious and easily guessable passwords. These can include their names or surnames, those of their pets or family members, and other information that would be obvious, such as birth year, month, or date. Setting strong passwords on your apps will make it harder for a hacker to guess them. It is also advisable to select a different password for each app. This way, if one password is discovered, the hacker or the thief won’t get easy access to all your information. Your Atlanta managed IT security services recommend a password that is long, with symbols, numbers, and not a regular word easy to guess.
#3. Keep your OS up to date
Updates not only mean that your phone will run more smoothly, but it also means that any vulnerabilities that might have existed have been resolved and patched up in the new version of the OS. It’s essential to update your phones’ OS when it’s available. Your smartphone will notify you of the latest updates. Keep your phone on auto-update so that these updates will happen whenever they are available. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance. These updates can protect both iOS and Android devices from newly discovered threats.
#4. Be aware of public Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
It is recommended to stay away from unsecured public networks, which most hackers love. They often lack basic security and encryption features, which makes their work a lot easier. To increase security on public Wi-Fi, using a mobile VPN might also be an option. However, make sure that the mobile VPN you are downloading is legit and does not collect any data from your phone.
On the other hand, people are not aware of the dangers of Bluetooth. It can also be an easy way for hackers to access your phone if you are not using it responsibly. Make sure to prevent your device from being detected, and always turn off Bluetooth when you are not using it.
#5. Install security software
Keeping all the above tips in mind will keep you on your guard, and installing a reliable security app will take you the rest of the way to complete protection. The cybersecurity software works non-stop in the background making sure that no unknown programs or files infiltrate the device. Avast has one of the most crucial security engines in the world. You may have heard of antivirus software for laptops or desktops, but your laptops can also benefit from it. These programs can protect against viruses and hacking attempts.
Smartphones are an amazing invention that helps us in our lives. Almost everyone now has a cell phone. Professionals such as doctors, lawyers, accountants, and IT professionals would be lost without having their own personal devices. These pocket-sized computers can perform a lot of functions with access to the internet, and they hold all your important data and personal information, so keeping it secure is very important. Use these tips to help protect your device.
Secure your company with help from Atlanta managed IT security services
INSI, your top Marietta and Atlanta managed IT security services, also has mobile cybersecurity protection services and has 16 different cybersecurity programs to protect you and your data.
For more information about cybersecurity dangers and the preventative measures for your company, connect with the top MSP in Atlanta, Contact INSI: 770-387-2424, option 2.
About the Author
Deborah Frazier is the author of IT Outsourcing Secrets – A Small Business Guide to Compare IT Support Companies. With nearly 20-years’ experience consulting small and medium-sized businesses on their IT support needs, she brings a wealth of knowledge to INSI as Head of Marketing and Sales. If you like this article and would like to get notified when a new article is posted, click here.
