Mobile Device Safety: Cyber Safe Advice

LOCKS

• Have a ‘lock’ to get into your device for better physical security
• Simple swipe screen locks, even face recognition systems, are not secure. Thumb prints, passwords and patterns are  much stronger.

ANTI-VIRUS SOFTWARE

• All smart devices need anti-virus software downloaded onto them
• You can get anti-virus software for free, or for a paid amount. They generally do exactly the same thing (though some paid software covers issues such as spyware).
• For more information on which anti-virus software may be best for your device, visit the Get Safe Online website.

DOWNLOADING APPS

Downloading rogue apps; or using websites which aren't legitimate, also pose a risk to our mobile devices.

• Apple's App Store is referred to as a ‘walled-garden’, rigourously monitoring all apps before they are available to download, and keeping regular checks on them too
• Other app stores are more of an ‘open market’, with less regulations and monitoring. This allows for apps with viruses or corrupt files attached to be downloaded onto your devices
• To minimise the risk of downloading such apps, verify their legitimacy by looking up user reviews online
• When you downloading an app, it should state the various phone functions it requires access to. Here, you can consider why apps would need access to device features – e.g. does a calculator app really need to access your contacts, camera and internet history?

LOCATION SETTINGS

• Most devices have the location setting turned 'ON' as standard; or after you have used your device’s GPS and not turned it off
• Leaving location settings 'ON' as you post on social media poses a risk for concerns such as stalking and burglary - as you may reveal your exact location when posting
• Go into your settings and turn this feature off when it is not needed to stay as safe as possible (it may also extend the charge on your battery!)

UPDATING SOFTWARE

• When your device prompts you to update the software, do so as soon as possible
• This makes the device less vulnerable to hacks, and as secure as possible