General Advice for devices online.
Devices
PC, MAC, iPads and Tablets, Phones
Mobile Phones
- Turn on the security features of your device – all devices have them. Contact your manufacturer or service provider for instructions, or look them up online.
- Set a password or Personal Identification Number (PIN) that must be entered to unlock the device and put PINs on your SIM card and voicemail.
- Install reputable security software – your device's manufacturer can provide recommendations.
- Update your device's operating system as soon as new updates are available. Set them to update automatically when connected to wi-fi to keep data costs to a minimum.
- Leave your Bluetooth turned off or in undiscoverable mode (hidden) when you are not using it. When connecting using Bluetooth, do it in private, uncrowded areas only.
- Use encrypted wi-fi networks that require a password and ensure your device does not automatically connect to new networks.
- Record the International Mobile Equipment Identifier (IMEI) of your handset, a 15 or 17 digit number usually printed on a label under the battery. If your device is lost or stolen, you can report this number to your provider and they can block the handset from being used.
- Use remote tracking via geo-location functionality and enable the locking and/or wiping functions, if your device supports them. Users should be aware that when geo-location functionality is turned on there are risks, just like with all online activities.
Stay Smart provided a lot of good general information on security
Click on the logo above for further reading
VPNs - Virtual Private Networks.
If you must use Airport, Cafe etc public WiFi connections, they are NOT secured or encrypted.
This makes ANY logins insecure because of packet sniffers in these areas.
The best way to avoid this is to use a VPN. A VPN adds security and privacy to private and public networks (WiFi Hotspots and the Internet.)
Examples PureVPN (PAY) | Spotflux (FREE)
Servers
If you have a server in the office that is permanently connected to the internet, you MUST ensure that this device id updated and scan even more regularly than you other devices.
Compromised servers account for a lot of the malware traffice on the internet.
iPads/ Tablets /Computers - various operating systems
If malicious software infects your computer equipment it can corrupt your files and can allow others to access your confidential business information.
You can help reduce the risks by having up-to-date security software installed and activated,
securing your internet connections and services and understanding and managing the emails and files you receive or download.
Backing-up your data can also help you recover your information if a virus destroys your files, or if your computer is stolen or damaged.
Tip List
Set and use strong passwords - use a Password Manager - they are free.
Set Email Filters to prevent that spam overload.
Do not click on Emails or open ANY attachments if you do not know the souce.
If the Email is unsolicited from an institution you know, go to their website.
Back-up your data on a regular basis to an external drive - this will save you if your device gets stolen or a drive is trashed.
Scan your device for contamination on a regular basis using an Anti Virus program that updates automatically.
Update software on your computer. Do not use versions that are no longer supported. This include the operating systems of your phone, tablet or computer.
Secure your wireless network by changing the master password on the wireless modem/router - see the video above.
Tighten the security of yor browser - Chrome is recommended.
If you are remotely accessing your network then a firewall is recommended