The term “Mobile Device” gets thrown around for anything from a smartphone to a tablet, and while that classification is true, mobile devices encompass items such as Laptops, Chromebooks, “smart watches” (Apple Watch), “smart appliances” (refrigerators, washing machines), and even “smart thermostats” (Nest). Thanks largely in part to technology that allows computer processors, graphics processing, and memory to be the size of a quarter, powerful computing capabilities can be found almost anywhere and in the most mundane of places.

Keep a Clean Mobile Machine: 

Mobile devices are computers at their core with software that needs to be kept up-to-date (just like your desktop PC). Security protections are built in and updated on a regular basis. (Tip: Take time to make sure all the mobile devices in your home have the latest protections).

Suspect Links and Texts: 

Be suspicious of unknown links or requests sent through email or text message. Do not click on unknown links or answer strange questions sent to your mobile device, regardless of who the sender appears to be, as some links are designed to gather your personal information.

Be Careful What You Download: 

Download only trusted applications from reputable sources or marketplaces, as some apps may install harmful code onto your device (malware).

• Secure Your Phone: Use a strong passcode and lock your phone. 
• Think Before you App: Review the privacy policy and understand what data (location, access to your social networks) the app can access on your device before you download. 

Protect Your Personal Information: 

Phones can contain tremendous amounts of personal information. Lost or stolen devices can be used to gather information about you, and potentially, others. Protect your phone like you would your computer. (Tip: Only give your mobile number out to people you know and trust and never give anyone else’s number out without their permission).

Connect with Care: 

Use common sense when you connect. If you’re online through an unsecured or unprotected network, be cautious about the sites you visit and the information you release.

• Get Savvy about Wi-Fi Hotspots: Limit the type of business you conduct and adjust the security settings on your device to limit who can access your phone.
• Protect your $: When banking or shopping, check to be sure the site is security enabled. (Tip: Look for web addresses with “https://” or “shttp://”, which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information. 
• When in Doubt, Don’t Respond: Fraudulent texting, calling and voicemails are on the rise. Just like email, requests for personal information or for immediate action are almost always a scam. 

Derived from NICCS and StaySafe Online