Security and Safety Tips for Mobile Devices

Just like desktop computers, the software on our mobile devices (e.g., laptops, smartphones, and tablets) must be kept up-to-date and free from malicious software. Unclean or unsecured mobile devices

Protect all devices that connect to the Internet. Laptops, smartphones, tablets, gaming systems, and other web‐enabled devices all need protection from viruses and malware. Ensure all your devices have the latest protections installed.

Keep software current. The best defenses against malware, viruses, and other online threats include having the latest mobile security software, web browser, and operating system.

Know the source of your app. Fraudulent apps often masquerade as popular products. Be sure to verify you are downloading the legitimate app and only download from trusted app marketplaces.

Do not "jailbreak" your mobile device. Running non-standard apps will prevent the installation of security updates from the manufacturer and will also likely void your device warranty

Secure physical access to your device. Be aware of your surroundings when using your device in public.

Lock your mobile device. Use a strong passcode or passphrase, facial recognition, or fingerprint authentication to assist in restricting access to personal information on your device.

Think before you app. Understand and be comfortable with what information (i.e., location, your contacts, social networking profiles, etc.) the app would access and share before you download it.

Clear data on your old devices. Erase all your personal data before selling, exchanging, or disposing of your old mobile device.

Get savvy about Wi‐Fi hotspots. When using public Wi-Fi, limit the type of business you conduct and adjust the security settings on your device to limit who can access your phone.

When in doubt throw it out: Links in email, posts and texts are often the ways cybercriminals try to steal your information or infect your devices.

Be mindful of what is at-risk. Open networks are vulnerable to monitoring, allowing user information (browsing history, passwords) to be collected. Connect to trusted, secure networks as they provide unreadable (encrypted) transmissions or use a virtual private network (VPN).

Be mindful of remote connectivity: Disconnect Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), or other remote connectivity services when not using them.

Make sure that the sites you share your personal information are secure: When banking and shopping online, check for web addresses with "https://", which means the site takes extra measures to protect your information. Sites beginning with "http://" are not secure.

Stay current. Keep pace with new ways to stay safe online. Check trusted websites for the latest information and share with friends, family, and colleagues to encourage them to be web wise.

Own your online presence. Set security and privacy settings so that you are comfortable with the information you share and to block those that you want to keep form having contact with you.


Being safer online makes the online world more secure for everyone. Practicing good online habits benefits the global digital community.

• Share about others only as you would be comfortable having them share about you.
  
  Never give out anyone else's personal information (e.g., email, social media handle, mobile number) to a third-party without that person’s permission including photos and videos.
  

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