Most folks carry at least one mobile device - ie. a smart phone. Besides a smart phone, many may also have a laptop and/or tablet. There are several different types of threats for these devices.
Threats
- Loss, theft, misplacement – Since devices are small, they can easily be lost or stolen.
- Unauthorized device and data access – If a device is on, unattended, and the screen is left unlocked, a malicious individual could make changes to the device or access data on the device.
- Malware – Any electronic device with an operating system such as Windows, OSX, IOS, Android, is vulnerable to malware. Anti-malware software can be installed on a device to make sure it isn’t infected by malware.
- Electronic eavesdropping – Malware has the ability to turn on mobile device microphones and/or cameras. If you have a mobile device in your pocket or near to you, this could be used to listen in on your conversations.
- Electronic location tracking – Most mobile devices have GPS built-in and this can be good if you misplace your phone you can find it with a tracking application, but it could also be bad because malicious software can use the GPS functionality to track your location.
Tips to Securing
- Maintain physical control.
- Don’t leave device in unlocked vehicle.
- If you must leave your device in a vehicle, put it in the trunk or conceal the item under the seat and lock the doors.
- Set a passcode and enable auto-lock.
- Backup data regularly.
- Apply critical patches/updates to the operating system and installed apps.
- Use up-to-date antivirus software on smartphones and tablets.
- Review the rights apps require before installing.
- Use full disk encryption on the device – Apple FileVault2 or Microsoft Windows Bitlocker.
Register & Track
- Register
the device with the manufacturer.
- Always
keep your registration, make, model, and serial number in a safe place at home.
- Asset tag, engrave the device, or apply distinctive
paint markings (such as indelible markers) to make it easily identifiable.
- Use commercial location software such as Apple FiindMyiPhone, LoJack Security, etc.
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