Six quick tips for protecting your mobile Phones

Ever wonder what you can do to make sure your personal data and information on your mobile device doesn’t end up in the wrong hands? Here are a few tips to help you quickly secure your phone and protect all your data.

1. Set a strong pin or passcode. If someone other than yourself winds up with your phone, a passcode is the first line of defense to protect your personal data. Create a strong passcode (never “1234” or “0000”) for your phone and set your screen to auto-lock.
2. Be smart on public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi networks are unprotected, which makes it easy for hackers to snoop on your Internet activity. If you need to use public Wi-Fi, we recommend that you limit social networking, and avoid using email or making online purchases unless the website is encrypted.
3. Trust your gut – don’t click on suspicious links in emails or on websites. If an email or a website looks suspicious, go with your instincts and get out of there! For example, if your bank emails you asking you to update your password, and you’re not sure if the email really came from your bank, don’t click on any links in the email. Instead, go to your mobile browser and type in the bank’s website. Then you can safely make the necessary changes.
4. Don’t download apps from third-party marketplaces, and always pay attention to app ratings and reviews before you download. Avoid downloading apps from third party marketplaces or links online – stick to official marketplaces such as the Apple App Store and Google Play. Before you download an app, take a moment to check the app ratings, the reviews, and the privacy or permissions statement. If you’re uncomfortable with the info an app is accessing (such as your location), don’t hesitate to stop installing it or delete it.
5. Don’t jailbreak or root your device unless you really know what you’re doing.Because jailbroken devices are inherently less protected, they are more vulnerable to an attack when security protection measures aren’t properly enabled.
6. Check the Lookout app to make sure Everything is OK. Lookout protects your phone against a variety of threats and fights against phone loss and theft. Check the app periodically to see how Lookout is protecting you.