Now that summer is finally upon us, thousands of vacationers will be traveling throughout the United States and beyond. Here are some simple tips to keep your mobile devices safe and secure while you travel:
The guidelines below provide core principles and recommendations for more secure use of digital devices and the Internet.
- Keep software updated. Running the most recent versions of your mobile operating system, security software, apps and Web browsers is among the best defenses against malware, viruses and other online threats.
- Keep your device secure by using a strong password to lock your smartphone or tablet.
- Enable two-step authentication when offered, and change passwords to any accounts you accessed while connected to an unfamiliar network.
- Before downloading an application (app), make sure you understand what information (i.e., location, your contacts, social networking profiles, etc.) the app would access and share before you download it. Download apps from trusted sources.
- Back up your contacts, photos, videos and other mobile device data with another device or cloud service on a weekly basis.
- When using a public or unsecured wireless connection, avoid using sites and apps that require personal information like log-ins.
- Automatically connecting to networks can create vulnerabilities exploitable by hackers and others. Switch off your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections when not in use.
- Delete any online communications (i.e., texts, emails, social media posts) that look suspicious, even if you think you know the source.
- When banking or shopping online, use only trusted apps or websites that begin with https://.
- The Golden Rule. Be respectful on your device. Treat others as you would like to be treated when texting, calling or using social networks.
- Share with care. Be a true friend when taking and sharing photos and videos with your smartphone. Get permission from friends before you share them via text or social networks.
- Be Web wise. Stay informed of the latest updates to your device and apps. Know what to do if something goes wrong.
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