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Technology > Phones > Smartphone security
Smartphone security
16th Feb 2010
The rapid evolution of modern technology has forced Australians to ensure the safety of their PCs and laptops. But how many mobile internet users give the same security consideration to their smartphones?
Apple, Blackberry, and every other company that sounds like a fruit, have released a phone that is, quite literally, a mini computer. These phones offer exciting and new capabilities that we could not have even dreamed of 10 years ago. However, these phones are showing signs of coming at an even greater cost than just the purchase price. With the same capabilities as most computers, these phones are susceptible to most of the risks. So, how do smartphone holders keep their data safe:
- Set and maintain strong passwords: Similar to a computer, ensure you have strong passwords, and that your pin is always turned on, making it harder for thieves to use if your phone is stolen/ lost.
- Think before you click: Do not open MMS or attachments or emails unless you are expecting them from a trusted source
- Check for updates to your phones system regularly: These updates will make your phone more secure
- Be careful when downloading from the web: Do not download from an unreliable source, and try to use the application store or website of your smart phones operating system or manufacturer to be safe.
- Back up your data regularly: Set up your smart phone so that it backs up your data each time that you connect and synchronise it to you PC or Laptop.
The first signs of your smartphone account being hacked is a sudden increase in your phone bill with no clear reason, messages in sent folders you didn’t send and any other suspicious changes. If you suspect foul play, do not hesitate to contact your service provider to investigate.
If you follow the principles of responsible PC or Laptop use, yet changing some of the parameters to allow for the change in device, then you should be fine. Staying smart and vigilant is the key!
Apple, Blackberry, and every other company that sounds like a fruit, have released a phone that is, quite literally, a mini computer. These phones offer exciting and new capabilities that we could not have even dreamed of 10 years ago. However, these phones are showing signs of coming at an even greater cost than just the purchase price. With the same capabilities as most computers, these phones are susceptible to most of the risks. So, how do smartphone holders keep their data safe:
- Set and maintain strong passwords: Similar to a computer, ensure you have strong passwords, and that your pin is always turned on, making it harder for thieves to use if your phone is stolen/ lost.
- Think before you click: Do not open MMS or attachments or emails unless you are expecting them from a trusted source
- Check for updates to your phones system regularly: These updates will make your phone more secure
- Be careful when downloading from the web: Do not download from an unreliable source, and try to use the application store or website of your smart phones operating system or manufacturer to be safe.
- Back up your data regularly: Set up your smart phone so that it backs up your data each time that you connect and synchronise it to you PC or Laptop.
The first signs of your smartphone account being hacked is a sudden increase in your phone bill with no clear reason, messages in sent folders you didn’t send and any other suspicious changes. If you suspect foul play, do not hesitate to contact your service provider to investigate.
If you follow the principles of responsible PC or Laptop use, yet changing some of the parameters to allow for the change in device, then you should be fine. Staying smart and vigilant is the key!
