Are you in the dark about mobile security?

Acorn Newsbot · Oct 2, 2012

The mobile device is at the centre of our personal and professional lives with more than half of adults owning a smartphone and one in 10 having a tablet. Despite this, research we’ve conducted shows that only 54% of people can correctly answer questions on smartphone and tablet security when put through a number of different scenarios, demonstrating that many of us are in the dark about mobile security.
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More than 1,000 people completed a number of tests on mobile security, looking at how they currently protect and interact with their smartphone or tablet. For example, participants were asked what personal information they keep on their device, whether they protect it with a password and whether they have downloaded antivirus software for it.
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Key findings from our research show:

43% don’t have security measures in place such as anti-virus software, remote wipe or the latest operating system, leaving them vulnerable to a wide range of threats.
21% of 16-24 year olds have been ‘phonejacked’, risking data and ID theft.
27% aren’t aware that they need to protect their mobile device, 31% don’t know how to and 19% don’t think it’s necessary.
27% don’t know how to judge whether an application is secure.

You can take*our free online test similar to the one used in the study to see whether you are in the dark about mobile security. It also gives advice on how to protect your device.
In the meantime, here are some handy top tips on how to secure your mobile device:

Don’t leave important data on your smartphone or tablet.
Don’t do financial transactions or enter passwords on public WiFi.
Set-up remote wipe and device location capabilities.
Download an antivirus app for your phone – be sure to check reviews and search Google for information about the developer first to make sure its safe.
Check your phone is running the latest version of the operating system.
Create a strong password (long but memorable) and set your screen lock at a five minute, or less, timeout.
When downloading an app, check the author's web site and other users' comments and be mindful of what data and services you’re allowing it access to.