Smartphone Security

Smartphones are the most widely used form of technology. Nearly every person in America has a smartphone in their pocket, and they often contain more sensitive data than any other device. Securing your mobile device is crucial to protecting the data it contains. Whether you have an Android or iPhone, keep your information protected by following these tips for securing your device.

Top Five Tips for Securing Smartphones

• Set PINs and Passwords. This will prevent unauthorized parties from accessing your device in case it's lost or stolen.
• Do not modify your phone's security settings. Jailbreaking, rooting, and tampering with factory settings undermines the built in security features your device comes with.
• Only install apps from trusted sources. To test the integrity of an app, always read reviews and compare the app's sponsor website with the app store link to confirm consistency.
• Understand app permissions before accepting them. Try to limit the amount of permissions each app receives. For example, a weather app probably needs access to your location, but not your microphone. Only grant each app the permissions it needs for functionality.
• Use caution on open Wi-Fi networks. Do not make digital purchases or access personal information on open Wi-Fi. These communications are easily intercepted and exploitable.

For additional tips on securing smartphones, check out the FCC's Smartphone Security Checker.