Device Advice: How to Keep Your Phone Safe from Fraud
Smartphones are the millennial’s answer to the disorganized life. You can buy anything with just a few swipes, schedule appointments and store your photos in this one, convenient spot. Unfortunately, all of that convenience comes at a price: Your mobile devices pose an inherent risk to your security if they fall into the wrong hands. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your device and information.
Here are 6 tips to help keep your phone safe and secure.
1. Keep your phone locked
If your entire life is on your phone, you run the risk of giving a thief access to your identity if it’s stolen or misplaced. The best way to prevent this from happening is to have a lock on your screen. Opt for a physical lock if possible, such as fingerprint or face recognition. Finally, adjust your phone’s lock settings so the screen automatically locks when not in use by setting a lock based on idle time.
2. Choose strong, unique passwords across all your devices and apps
Use a different password for each device, app and other online accounts. The longer your password the stronger it is, but security can also be improved when you include a blend of letters with varied capitalization use, numbers, and symbols.
3. Browse safely
- Look for the padlock icon and the “s” after the “http” in the URL of each landing page you visit.
- Never give your login information to anyone. Olean Area Federal Credit Union will never ask for this information. Please report if someone claiming to be from the Credit Union asks for your login.
- Never share your personally identifiable information (PII) with an unknown contact.
- Keep your security settings current.
- Avoid clicking on pop-up ads or links in emails from unverified senders.
4. Use secure Wi-Fi
Using public Wi-Fi can make you vulnerable to hacking. It’s best not to use public Wi-Fi at all, especially when banking online. To help keep your device safe while using public Wi-Fi, consider using a virtual private network (VPN). In addition, be sure to keep your own Wi-Fi secured to avoid having strangers access it.
5. Encrypt your data
Using encryption on your devices along with secure logins can assist with protecting its data and potentially any PII contained on those devices.
6. Install antivirus software on your phone
Consider the use of Antivirus software for all your devices including phones and tablets.
Use the tips outlined here to help keep your phone safe from fraud.
