Let's face it, your personal devices are targeted by cyber criminals. Even if you're only using your smart phone for routine tasks like email, social media, Googling, and banking – your personal identifiable information could be at risk. For example, fraudsters and cyber criminals often obtain sensitive information by using the following repeatable or convincing tactics:
- They'll use phone calls, emails, and text messages to "phish" for sensitive information
- They'll find targets by monitoring traffic on unsecured Wi-Fi networks
- They'll develop imitation apps that can look like reputable or recognizable companies
- They'll post fake offers and malicious links on websites and social media
- They'll even steal mobile devices to hack, offload, and sell data
So, what can you do for protection?
To keep your information secure, make sure your devices are kept safe, backed up, updated, and equipped with the latest security features.
Secure Your Family's Mobile Devices
Take steps to prevent the physical theft of your devices.
Use the following tips and make sure your family members are aware of the potential threats, too!
- Watch your surroundings. When your location doesn’t feel safe, trust your judgement and keep your device somewhere secure.
- Keep your device with you. Even if you're walking away for a short minute, take it with you. Don’t leave your smart phone unattended when in public, especially where it's visible to others.
- Know your anti-theft software. Most popular phone manufacturers provide software to locate it, wipe it, and block it if you suspect it’s been stolen.
In addition to protecting against physical theft, you can:
Choose a secure device. Different mobile devices offer different security features. Make sure to understand them up front, and don’t disable any default features. It might seem like a convenience at the time, but it could cost you later on. Use the FCC’s Smartphone Security Checker for ways to secure your mobile device based on the operating system.
Keep the operating system up to date. Software updates are likely to fix vulnerabilities that attackers can take advantage of. Install them as soon as they become available or enable automatic updates. Even if automatic updates are turned on, you may have an older update if you've maxed out your phone's storage. You can avoid this trap by checking your phone's updates regularly and keeping extra space available on your device at all times.
Turn on device authentication. The most secure authentication is biometric, if available, including FaceID or fingerprint scanning. Regardless, it's a good idea to turn on PIN protection for your device and multi-factor authentication for apps and accounts.
Be careful which apps are installed. While you’re browsing the app store, it might seem like the first result is the best option. Check the app description, permissions, and reviews. If the app seems new, has grammatical errors in the description, poor reviews, or only a few reviews, you may want to observe caution.
Back up data. You may be able to download your mobile device's data to the manufacturer’s cloud storage. This backup will preserve data in the event your device is lost, stolen, or replaced. If you're selling or junking your old device, make sure all personal data is deleted first.
Use secure Wi-Fi networks. When out in public, don't use shared Wi-Fi networks that have no password protection. On public networks, cyber criminals can monitor who's using it and may be able to gain access to your personal information.
Tell your family. Remember to have these important conversations with your loved ones, too. Many people target the younger and older generations with fraud and cybercrimes. You can help your family to stay informed and protected.
As your trusted financial partner, we're here to help. If you're concerned that your personal or account information has been compromised, call us immediately at 800.242.2120. We can provide guidance and next steps to limit exposure and protect your accounts.
Cybersecurity Tips Resources for Account Security
