Mobile Devices Tips

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Mobile devices can perform a variety of tasks: take pictures, send text messages, surf the Web, and more. Be sure to take the same precautions on your mobile device as you do on your computer with regard to messaging and online safety. Follow these tips to increase your mobile phone security:

• Secure your phone with a strong passcode or other privacy feature.
• Think before you text. Keep in mind how the message might be read before you send it. Be aware that texts can be forwarded.
• Only give your mobile number out to people you know and trust and never give anyone else's number out without their permission.
• When in doubt, don't respond. Text and call only the people and businesses you know in real life.
• Use caution when meeting face-to-face with someone who you only "know" through text messaging. Even though texting is often the "next step" after online chatting, that does not mean that it is safer.
• Make sure you have someone's permission before taking pictures or videos of them with your phone. Likewise, make sure you're comfortable before allowing someone to take pictures or videos of you.
• Learn how to disable the geotagging feature on your phone at icanstalku.com.
• Make sure you know how to block others from calling your phone. Using caller ID, you can block all incoming calls or block individual names and numbers.
• Remember: safer for me, more secure for all. What you do on your mobile device has the potential to affect others.
• If your phone is lost or stolen, report it to your local police station and your network operator immediately.
• Learn about Privacy in the Age of the Smartphone offered by Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.