5 Mobile Security Tips to Protect your Presents

The latest smartphones and tablets are true entertainment systems, powerful productivity tools and, for many of us, our default communications device. And so it’s with a great sense of excitement that we unwrap this year’s new model, particularly when it’s been given to us as a present.

With a world of entertainment at your fingertips, it’s likely that the first things you’ll want to do after unwrapping an Android or iOS device is switch it on and start listening to music, browse the web, and start video calling your friends and family.

However, these days the number one priority is to focus on the security of your new prized possession. This advice won’t be new to many people – security conscious laptop owners will know that the first thing they need to do with a new computer is install security software and download operating system updates. But with more than 1/3 of smartphone users having experienced mobile cybercrime, it’s become essential for mobile platforms too.

With that in mind, here are 5 Mobile Security Tips to #ProtectYourPresents:

1. Update your OS: Ensure your smartphone or tablet is updated with the latest releases. As well as making sure your device is running the most secure version of Android or iOS, you may also find that the new operating system includes some handy new features.
2. Set up a passcode lock. Using pin protection should mean that no one can gain access to your device if it’s lost or stolen. You don’t need to stick with the standard four-digit passwords - you can choose a longer number and some handsets ship with biometric security. Learn more about safe passcode options.  
3. Install security software: Mobile security threats are growing ever more sophisticated, and staying one step ahead of hackers and identity thieves is all but impossible. Security software such as Norton Mobile Securityscans mobile app downloads to prevent malicious software from installing on your new device.
4. Limit connections: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies make it easier for cybercriminals to spy on your activities and transmit data to your device without your permission. It’s best to turn them on only when you need them and when you know the network is secure.
5. Set backups: If your phone does get lost or stolen, you’ll want to make sure you don’t lose your files too. Make sure you stick to a policy of backing up important information. Investigate your options, and consider what files you may miss should your device disappear.