Your Handbook for Everyday Security
This series of articles is based on a handbook used as an outline for cybersecurity courses, viewed from a user perspective. The handbook, or these articles, is copyrighted by Vasco F. Gonçalves, working for SDNC sàrl.
Mobile Security Essentials
App Permissions
- Review App Permissions: Regularly check and manage app permissions on your mobile device to control what data apps can access.
- Example: Review and revoke unnecessary permissions, such as location access for apps that don’t require it for their functionality.
- Permission Prompts: Pay attention to permission prompts when installing new apps and evaluate whether the requested access aligns with the app’s purpose.
- Example: A photo editing app requesting access to contacts might be unnecessary and could indicate potential data misuse.
Wireless Security
- Secure Wi-Fi Connections: Avoid connecting to unsecured or public Wi-Fi networks, which could expose your device to security risks.
- Example: Use VPNs when connecting to public Wi-Fi to encrypt data and enhance security.
- Bluetooth Awareness: Disable Bluetooth when not in use to prevent unauthorized access or attacks through Bluetooth vulnerabilities.
Remote Wiping and Device Management
- Remote Wipe Functionality: Enable remote wiping on your mobile device to protect sensitive data if the device is lost or stolen.
- Example: Services like Find My iPhone (iOS) or Find My Device (Android) allow remote wiping to erase data if the device is unrecoverable.
- Device Tracking and Locking: Utilize features that enable device tracking and locking remotely to prevent unauthorized access.
- Example: Geolocation services help track and locate the device, while remotely locking it secures personal data.
Best Practices for Mobile Security
Biometric Authentication: Use biometric authentication methods like fingerprints or facial recognition for added security.
Regular Updates: Keep your device’s operating system and apps updated to patch vulnerabilities and improve security.
Next, many expect that – we will speak about:
Understanding Crypto Wallets