October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Stay secure by observing the following best practices while using a mobile device.
Wi-Fi
- Do not allow your device to automatically join unfamiliar networks.
- Always turn off Wi-Fi when you are not using it or do not need it.
- Never send sensitive information over Wi-Fi unless you know it is secure.
Apps
- Only use apps available in your device’s official store.
- Never download apps from a browser, and be wary of apps from unknown developers.
- Keep apps updated to ensure the latest security
- Delete apps that are no longer supported.
- Do not automatically give privileges to apps to access to your location, contacts, or photos.
Bluetooth
- Disable Bluetooth pairing, and always turn off Bluetooth when not in use.
- Bluesnarfing is the theft of information from a wireless device through a Bluetooth connection.
Text Messaging
- Smishing is phishing via SMS, or text message. Do not trust messages that attempt to get you to reveal personal information.
- Treat text messages the same way you treat email. Think before you click.
Mobile Web Browsing
- Web addresses are harder to validate on the smaller screens of devices. Verify websites before attempting to login.
- Do not save your login information to the web browser.
Contact Mike Wilson at mikewilson1@cwi.edu or 208.562.3193 with questions or for more cybersecurity tips, questions, and information.
