We use our cell phones every day for a lot of different aspects of our lives. Cybersecurity, especially on our phones, is very important. Here are five cybersecurity tips to boost your phone security that you should be incorporating into your routine and cybersecurity habits.   

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 

Everyone uses smartphones, which means connecting a phone to Wi-Fi is something we do frequently. When you are not using your phone or needing an internet connection, it is very smart to get into the habit of shutting your Wi-Fi off. The same goes for your Bluetooth. Hackers are able to connect to your device and can gain access to your files if you are on an unsecured Wi-Fi and/or are connected to your Bluetooth.  

Password Protection 

This seems like an obvious tip but be sure to not only password protect your device, and also password protect your applications. We know it can sometimes be a hassle to type in a password, pin, or pattern every time you enter your phone - but the number of times we lay our phones down gives us a good a reason to do this to be fully secure. As easy as it is to have your email or mobile wallet app open, think if someone picked up or hacked your device. Always lock your phone and apps when you’re no longer using them.  

Mobile Applications 

We love our apps, but apps are often the reason our devices are less secure or even hacked. Be sure you are downloading your applications from trusted stores and read the reviews if able. Being notified of app updates is very important as you have the knowledge of what exactly is being updated. Speaking of app updates, be sure to regularly update your apps. If you are no longer using an app, delete it from your device immediately. Cleaning up your devices and having them properly updated is a good cybersecurity practice for your phone.  

Data and Systems  

Protect and restore your data by backing up the data on your device. In an instance where you have been hacked or lost your data, religiously backing up your device will have your back and will hopefully minimize the possibility that your phone will crash or take up additional storage. The same goes for your device’s systems, periodically update your device when new updates roll out to tighten your device’s security posture.  

Personal Information 

We all tend to have very personal information on our phones from texts, notes, payment options, pictures, and more. Avoid storing personal information including passwords, social security numbers, account numbers, etc. Locking up your apps that have access to your payment options or that have had personal information sent to them is crucial to having good cybersecurity on your mobile phone. What seems private behind a password, may not always be safe especially when it comes to important personal information. Be sure to password protect your screen and your applications for the best security.  

Our phones are vital to us and our daily routines. Use these cybersecurity tips to tighten up your mobile security. If mobile security is not taken seriously,  you may be open to being hacked. Use your phone responsibly by incorporating these tips today.