Your computer is an important piece of equipment on which you probably store or access a substantial amount of personal information. That is why it is fairly common knowledge that you should protect your computer from security threats with antivirus and antimalware programs. But if you are like many other people around the world, your computer isn’t the only way that you access important personal information. Smartphones have become incredibly advanced, and owning one is a bit like having a small portable computer on your person. You may access bank accounts, social media sites, email, and many other important things that you wouldn’t want a stranger to have access to. 
Have you put smartphone security measures in place to protect your phone like you would your computer? Is it something you never even though of? Here are a few things you can do to promote smartphone security and protect yourself from data theft.
Mobile Security Apps
That’s right, they do in fact make applications for your smartphone to make them much more secure. There are plenty of options out there, so don’t choose too quickly. You want to pick a program that will give you the most for our money, although there are some great free options available too. Some features to look for:
- Antivirus
- Anti-theft/loss protection
- Parental control
- Battery saver
- Encrypted storage
Most quality mobile security apps can offer you these options and more, so shop around and see what works best for you.
Always Install Updates
This rule which is so important to follow on your computer is just as important for smartphone security too. One big reason that manufacturers roll out updates is to tighten up holes in security and keep malicious hackers out of your personal information. If you put updates off for any length of time, or let them stack up, you could be playing a dangerous game with the safety of your accounts, passwords, and private data. It may seem annoying and time consuming to sit down and wait for an update to install, but that updated software can make all the difference.
Be Careful What You Download
Apps are available by the thousands, and you can find something for just about every task, game, or purpose possible. But some apps can be a risk to your smartphone security. Before you download an app, be sure to read what permissions it requires to run. If you have something like a flashlight or game which requests access to your contacts, email, or other social media, you should beware. An app can pull information from these places and use it to send out spam or viruses to others. Use caution, as you would on your computer, and check reviews before you install applications.
Lock it and Install a Remote Wipe App
Danger to your smartphone doesn’t have to be from a complicated app virus or software attack. It can simply be from the loss or theft of your device. If you accidentally leave your phone someplace, it is very likely that a stranger will pick it up, and not everyone will be kind and turn it into a lost and found. You don’t want a stranger having access to all of the personal data which you store and access on your smartphone, but how can you prevent it if they have stolen it? Of course, using the lock option is a simple yet effective way to protect the data on your phone. And as a fail-safe method, you can install a remote wipe app. This will allow you to access the app from a computer and wipe the information clean from your missing phone. They may have your device, but at least they won’t have your data.
If you have any further questions about smartphone security, give our team at The Local Circuit a call, and we’ll be happy to help.