In today’s tech-savvy world, mobile digital media time has now surpassed desktop use. According to Mary Meeker in her 2015 Internet Trends report, 51% of media is accessed on mobile, versus 42% on desktop or laptop. The 24/7 availability of mobile devices allows users to be always connected — but can also expose us to vulnerability.

Here are four simple steps you can use to make sure your loved ones are #CyberAware and protected when they go online. Visit staysafeonline.org for more information about how to avoid the headache of hackers as well as tips to protect all the devices in your home.

1. Ensure software is up-to-date.

It might seem like a hassle to constantly update your smartphone or mobile device with the latest software releases, especially if the update takes up precious space. But, software updates include security patches for known issues — and they can protect you from hackers accessing your data. You may have to connect your device to your computer to download the latest software update.

2. Protect personal information.

Phones are a treasure trove of data — not only about you, but your family members and friends as well. Think about your contact list, your passwords, and even your text messages and email accounts. If your phone is stolen or hacked, all of this data is readily available to exploit. You should protect it as closely as you would your banking information. Make sure to use a strong passcode. Review privacy features of apps before you download it — taking note of what other apps or social media accounts the app can access with your permission.

3. Connect with caution.

Especially with free Wi-Fi in public areas, the wireless connection is not secure. In other words, it’s possible that a hacker could access your device and retrieve information from you, or install malware or spyware. Take care not to access your banking information in public areas, or other accounts with your credit card information stored.

4. Be smart about being online.

Scammers are increasingly savvy about mimicking trusted websites or emails to trick you into sharing personal information. Never share usernames, passwords, or other important identity information in an email, text message or to a caller. Fraudulent texting, calls and voicemails are on the rise. Trust your instincts — if an email seems suspicious, don’t reply, or mark it as junk mail to block the sender.

Keep everyone around you safe on mobile devices

The National Cyber Security Alliance has also made this mobile tip sheet available. Download it, print and distribute it to your loved ones, neighbors and coworkers. You might provide the one bit of information that keeps one more person safe and aware of the malicious actions of hackers.

For further mobile cybersecurity

Focusing on enterprise mobile cybersecurity, Cyber Solutions Technologies offers patented cybersecurity software authentication (3-factor) solutions for your business. This software enables employees to protect corporate data and safely carry their own personal files and records on their mobile devices.

This technology is immediately available for cross-platform integration and will help secure a digital footprint when accessing mobile devices in public Wi-Fi spots, while traveling and on unfamiliar networks.

Do you have any tips to share about protecting mobile devices? Leave your ideas in the comments! For more information about Cyber Solutions Technologies, email rickw@cybersolutionstek.com.

photo credit: via photopin (license)