February 15, 2016

In this digital age, staying constantly connected to the internet has become quite important. However, every new technology comes with its own set of security risks. If you do not take the requisite precautionary measures, your device may be targeted by cybercriminals to carry out hacking or malware-based attacks.

Here are some of the tips to avoid security pitfalls while browsing internet on a mobile device:

  • Be Cautious While Using Public Wi-Fi: If you are using a public internet connection or Wi-Fi hotspot, never access any website that requires you to enter sensitive information such as your bank account details, credit card number, password etc. Most hotspots do not use WPA or WPA2 protection, hence, the information you share over these connections is not encrypted. This may lead to session hijacking and all your personal data can be accessed by a cybercriminal.
  • Do Not Follow Links: You should never click on any attachment or link embedded in email from an unknown sender. It may be a malicious code that redirects to a spam site in order to infect your system with a malware or steal your personal information. Instead, manually type in the URL to make sure you are visiting a legitimate website. Also, do not click on ads that appear as pop-ups on websites.
  • Look For HTTPS: If the information shared between your device and the website being browsed is in a plain format, it can be accessed by anyone who manages to breach your internet connection. When you access a website, verify that its URL begins with ‘HTTPS’ instead of ‘HTTP’.  A padlock icon will also be displayed in the address bar which indicates a secure connection.
  • Improve Device Security: Keep all the mobile applications software updated with the latest patches. You can enable automatic updates or regularly check if any upgraded versions have been released. Enable your device’s firewall to monitor incoming and outgoing connections as well as detect any unusual activity. You should also install anti-virus software and frequently update it to stay safe against commonly found malware.
  • Get A VPN: Another way to be safe while on a public internet connection is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). It acts as a barrier between your device and the web by routing your traffic in an encrypted format through a secure network. VPN helps to protect your identity and privacy online.

For more cyber security tips, feel free to contact Centex Technologies at (855) 375 – 9654.