In today’s super connected, technologically driven world, browsing on the go has never been so simple. As well as having the best device to browse remotely – our tablets and smartphones are more decked out than ever to serve our online needs – free public Wi-Fi is more widely and readily available, meaning you can browse without using your mobile data in a vast range of public spaces. Jumping on free internet connections has become the way to browse the web, access online accounts, keep on top of workloads, and check email inboxes and social media profiles. For all the convenience of public Wi-Fi however comes an array of security challenges.
The online world and the users that frequent it are increasingly being targeted for their data. Cyber criminals now use more sophisticated techniques to get hold of sensitive information, data that could easily be used to commit fraud and other crimes in your name. Exercising caution and taking additional measures to protect your information when connected to public Wi-Fi is therefore important. Read on to discover our top tips for improving device security for browsing on the go.
Stay up to date
Your device’s operating system provides an essential defence against cyber-attack but without the most current updates, how can your device protect you against the latest techniques being used by fraudsters and cyber criminals? Updating your smartphone or tablet is simple, so take note when prompted. Every patch applied to your device helps to harden the operating system within, fixing the vulnerabilities and closing the loopholes that could be used to a hacker’s advantage.
Beef up your security
Just like your desktop devices, mobile devices can call upon security tools to protect them from viruses, malware and other security issues. Most smartphones and tablets already come with anti-virus and other security tools installed. If your device doesn’t, such software can be downloaded from your app store. Make sure you only download approved and verified security apps.
Only use secure public Wi-Fi
According to Kaspersky Lab, 70% of tablet owners and 53% of smartphone and mobile phone owners stated that they use public Wi-Fi hotspots. You will however be surprised to learn just how many public Wi-Fi connections and hotspots are unsecure. The use of unsecure public Wi-Fi networks poses major risks to users and their data, which makes avoiding their use altogether, particularly for activities that use sensitive data such as online banking and shopping, vital.
If you are using secure Wi-Fi be sure to disable your smartphone or tablet’s wireless capabilities when you’re done. The ‘drive-by hack’ is still common, this is when nearby scammers search for wireless connections that haven’t been disabled and drop unwanted malware into devices.
Turn on two-factor authentication
The security features of smartphones are getting better and one of the newest additions for protecting your data is two-factor authentication. This security method protects you and your device by requesting two forms of identification, meaning hackers looking to gain access can’t get away with it so easily. You can switch on two-factor authentication in your phone’s settings.
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