Are your electronic devices safe from hackers? Phishing scams alone cost consumers and businesses $2.8 billion dollars annually! The problem is growing in California, as our use of Smartphones, iPads and other mobile devices present opportunities for data thieves, especially on public networks.
Wi-Fi “hotspots” can pose a special hazard, because it’s easy to assume the first available connection is the connection belonging to the business, and therefore “safe” for public use. This isn’t always the case, and hotspot hijacking is another growing problem.
To help you keep your mobile devices safe, I’m sharing 12 security tips from eweek.com and the Better Business Bureau for your computer and Smartphone!
1. Update your software. Your computer should have the latest anti-virus software installed, along with a secure firewall. You can find product reviews about anti-virus software in this PC World article from January 2013.
2. Shop on trustworthy websites. Check a seller's reputation and customer satisfaction at bbb.org. Look for the “s” in https:// in the URL address box to ensure you’re shopping on a secure website.
3. Beware of phishing. Avoid clicking on links from emails sent from anyone you do not know, or if they appear suspicious.
4. Set strict privacy settings. Consider restricting access on social network profiles to only friends or family, or people you know. Avoid connecting with anyone on social networking sites who you are unfamiliar with.
5. Set strong passwords. Make sure all passwords, most importantly your passwords for online banking, social media and email accounts, are difficult to guess. Passwords should contain a combination of letters, numbers and punctuation marks. Change your passwords periodically.
6. Lock your phone. Add a security code to your phone to prevent thieves from accessing your data. Set your phone to lock automatically when not in use for a specified time.
7. Update your operating system. Regularly updating your phone closes security loopholes and helps stop hackers.
8. Beware of unknown apps and links. Do not download any apps or click on links in your email or social media pages without first researching the source. They may contain viruses, malware or spyware that can compromise your personal data.
9. Avoid unsecured Wi-Fi. If you choose to connect to an unsecured or public Wi-Fi network, do not enter passwords or access any personal data. Never check your banking data or credit card info from an unsecured location.
10. Treat your cell phone like your wallet. Do not hand your phone to a stranger who wants to borrow it to make a call. Do not leave your cell phone unattended.
11. Check your permissions. Check all of your apps to see what data they are accessing. Revoke permissions for invasive information that your apps don’t need in order to properly operate.
12. Erase data from old phones completely. If you’re selling, donating or recycling your old phone, ensure all your data is completely erased and the phone is returned to factory settings.
Looking to buy or sell a home in Whittier? Look no further! At the Domis Team, we have the local expertise and the friendly, professional service you can count on. Whether you need a comparative market analysis to find your home value, or you'd like to visit Whittier homes for sale, we are here to help you! Contact us today for the Whittier real estate guidance you can trust!
The Domis Team
Prudential California Realty
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