5 Ways to Stay Protected When Working on Your Mobile Device

Thanks to technology, we are no longer tied to our desks with wires to get our work done. However, with this freedom of becoming a mobile workforce we have also opened up a Pandora’s box of dangers to the security of the data on your mobile devices. There are several ways you can stay protected when working on your mobile device.

1. Choose Secure Passwords

Regardless of what mobile device you are using, whether it is a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, you need to make sure you choose a secure password. Never choose one that is too obvious, like the name of your child or pet. Your best bet for a secure password is to choose one that has a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters if the device’s operating system allows it. There are tools available to check the strength of your password such as the one offered on HowSecureIsMyPassword[dot]net

2. Connect to Secure Networks if Possible

Chances are if you are connecting to free WiFi in your local coffee shop or hotel common areas, you are connecting to an open network. Ideally, you should only connect to networks that are secured by WPA or at least WEP encryption. Nonetheless, most free WiFi hotspots are not secure; therefore, you need to be vigilant to protect your data when you connect to them. Only connect to websites that are secured with SSL to avoid packet snooping on a public network that could allow others to see your confidential data. Be sure to avoid visiting your banking or credit card websites from unsecured networks, also.

3. Block Access to Your Devices

Make sure you have your firewall enabled to block unauthorized access to your devices. Most laptops and tablets already have a firewall installed, but you can also find protection for your other devices from companies such as Symantec and McAfee. Keep up-to-date with all your operating system, application, and antivirus software on all your devices to prevent access through the latest viruses or hacking methods. Be sure to configure your Bluetooth options to block unauthorized access.

4. Don’t Store Confidential Data on Your Mobile Devices

There is no need to travel around with seven years’ worth, or let alone even a copy of your last year’s tax returns on your mobile devices. Leave that information at home, safely stored away from prying eyes or in the event your device is lost or stolen. If you must keep sensitive information on your devices, make sure that it is encrypted to save yourself the headache of confidential information falling into the wrong hands.

5. Keep a Backup of Your Data

You should always make sure that keep a backup of your mobile devices in a secure location. When we say secure, we mean not in its case or your briefcase where it can get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep a copy at home or in your office so that it is readily available if and when you need it. A backup solution to consider is using an online backup service such as what is offered by Carbonite or similar vendor that can be accessed from anywhere.

By following these suggestions, you can make working on your mobile devices a safer experience. It may be a jungle out there with people who think nothing of stealing your information for their personal gain, but you do have easy options to protect yourself.

Author Bio

Fergal Glynn is the Director of Product Marketing at Veracode, an award-winning application security company specializing in Veracode's SQL injection security solutions and other security breaches with effective risk assessment tools like: data leak guidefrom veracode.