Let’s face it, mobile security is on the top list of every businesses’ concern. With the increasing number of people who constantly depend on mobile devices for personal or corporate usage, it is no wonder that there is a high vulnerability of sensitive data.

As there are different factors that can contribute to mobile device security or risk, it is of great importance that every user should understand how to protect mobile devices.

1. Password Protect Your Device

The simplest way to secure a mobile device is to make sure that a screen lock or passcode has been set up with a strong password. Other mobile devices have a special authentication feature, Face ID and Touch ID, unique to the owner. Ideally, passwords for devices should also be set to time out after the device has been idle for a short period of time which requires the user to re-enter the passcode.

2. Keep the OS Up-to-Date

Maintaining the OS up to date is fundamental for every mobile device. Pop up for system updates may not seem important and it takes time to run on the device, however outdated software increases vulnerabilities for hackers. Make sure to turn on automatic updates on your mobile devices to improve mobile security.

3. Install Anti-Malware Software

Few people realize that, similar to computers and laptops, mobile devices can also be infected by malware. Installing mobile antivirus software improves security for a device that you’re most likely on as much as your computer. There are many options free but choosing software that can help manage your device with policies, like encryption, passwords, filtering, etc is worth paying for.

4. Avoid Public Wi-Fi and Use VPN

How appealing it is to connect your mobile devices to FREE public Wi-Fi networks. It may seem safe to use but in reality, it increases the susceptibility of the information on your device to hackers and malware.

The use of a Virtual Private Network is essential when connecting through an unsecured connection where everyone is connected to. It increases the online security and confidentiality of the information when surfing the internet. When your VPN is connected, all information is strongly encrypted thus keeping transmitted information safe on all your mobile devices.

5. Remote Lock and Data Wipe

Ensuring that the remote lock and data wipe options are available and are turned on helps with device loss and / or theft. When a mobile device is lost or stolen, the owner or business has the ability to either remotely lock the device or completely remove stored confidential data. Security professionals believe that this is basic and necessary that every end-user should understand how important and beneficial it is to the business.

6. Cloud Backups

As mobile devices become the primary device of people, it becomes more convenient to work from and to store confidential data on mobile devices. Part of every companies’ business continuity and disaster recovery planning is to consider cloud-based back-ups for mobile devices and machines.

7. Partition your Data

It is inevitable for mobile devices to contain both personal and business information. To increase the security of both personal and business information, it’s highly recommended to partition the data on your device. Separating data eases the process of permanently removing business information in should you need to wipe the data.

Mobile malware attacks have rapidly increased in 2019, and security professionals have found that hackers are getting more sophisticated in targeting mobile device users.

With the ever-growing range of security threats, it is essential for personal, enterprise as well as small and medium-sized businesses to improve mobile security.