10 tips for mobile device security
February 2, 2015
Mobile handheld devices, such as smartphones, tablets and personal digital assistants,
function while connected to a wireless data network and allow their users to be in
motion. While the compact size of mobile devices makes them extremely useful and convenient,
the access they give means that residual data is often left behind. This carries a
certain risk, so users should pay attention to security.
The UA Office of Information Technology offers the following configuration options to
reduce some of the risks associated with using mobile devices.
- Configure mobile devices to be secure.
- Avoid using auto-complete features to remember usernames or passwords.
- Connect to secure Wi-Fi networks and disable Wi-Fi when not in use.
- Backup your device on a regular basis.
- Use anti-virus programs and configure automatic updates when possible.
- Use an encryption solution to keep data safe in transit.
- Update mobile devices frequently. Select the automatic update option, if available.
- Take appropriate physical security measures to prevent theft or enable recovery of mobile devices.
- Use appropriate sanitization and disposal procedures for mobile devices.
- Consider the effects on privacy of use and configuration.
For more information, download the Mobile Device Security flier (pdf) from OIT.