It’s no surprise to anyone that smartphones are adding a level of convenience to our lives that is unprecedented in modern times. It’s clear that our smartphones have become the focal point for photos, music, videos, work related documents, and much more. You only need to recall that feeling of panic you have when you’re on an outing and you realized you forgot your smartphone at home. That’s a real indicator of how powerful this device has become to us. We depend on them for everything – from financial transactions and work-related activities, to personal connections.
This convenience in one device is a double edged sword. We love it and need it. But it also exposes us to risks we didn’t have prior to smartphones. Because we share plans and smartphones with our family members, it is vital that everyone has a basic understanding of the inherent risks and the simple prevention that is available. Every member of your family must have some understanding of smartphone security. If you have a family security plan or system you follow, even better.
Get the Right Info about your Smartphone Security
Generally speaking, there are three main areas we can be mindful of regarding our smartphones.
Mobile malware is out there and it is active. That’s a fact. Consider this fact and all that it means. Malware is designed to expose the weakness in your smartphone’s operating system and to take advantage of that. Mobile malware can make your smartphone useless. Imagine the implications if it took over your phone. Or worse, it can gain access to sensitive data that is stored on your smartphone.
A lost smartphone is something that you should consider. It can and does happen. You should have a contingency plan in place. You should be able to connect to your smartphone remotely. Have you installed remote wipe options?
And don’t forget that thieves can steal your purse or briefcase or even your smartphone itself. If you leave it unsupervised for a moment, say, while you get a lid for your coffee in a coffee shop for example, that might just happen.
A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way
A surprising number of people do not take the basic action of protecting their smartphone with a password. Passwords are the keys to your smartphone. So, it is essential to set up either passcode locks, passwords or PINs for your smartphone.
Not all apps are created with security in mind. It is not uncommon for third party apps to be infected with some sort of malware, which goes undetected if you don’t have proper mobile antivirus protection. Don’t download apps from unknown providers. And if you really want an app regardless, research the reviews online prior to installation. And as a rule, do not install apps that require your contact list or Facebook account details.
How to Insure your Smartphone
And if your smartphone is lost or stolen, what are you to do? Take a look at your home insurance policy to see if there is a limit on mobile phones or other electronic devices. Home insurance policies generally provide some coverage for mobile phones and mobile electronic devices. Be sure to check your deductible. Identity theft insurance might be a smart thing to also add. If your smartphone is stolen and sensitive data is accessed, you want to ensure you are adequately protected.
We offer the only Edmonton Home Insurance policy that can be truly tailored to your needs. Be sure to visit our website and receive a quick quote online or by phone. Or Visit our Edmonton Home Insurance video for a quick overview.
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Post tags: financial loss coverage, home insurance, Identity Theft, Insurance, mobile security, online security, personal liability, renters, smartphone
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