IT
with Charles Zealey
In this regular column Charles Zealey, of ITSolve, covers all aspects of business and personal computing. If you have a question about IT matters, e-mail it to Charles at: itmatters@itsolve.co.uk
You can also follow him on Twitter – http://twitter.com/itsolve
We are used to the need for security in many aspects of our lives. We are inclined to lock our homes when we go out, to lock our cars, to set alarms and so on.
We would rather not, but we know that a small minority of people will take advantage if we do not follow these relatively simple procedures. When we travel we are used to security checks at the airport. We find it annoying and tedious but we recognise that it is important when a small number of people have the power to cause disruption and death if not stopped.
You will be used to me writing about the need for security measures to protect your computers and networks. What about your mobile phone? One interesting side effect of the recent problems experienced by Blackberry users was the highlighting of the trend away from using our mobile phones for making phone calls. Apparently time spent on use of ‘Apps’ and messaging applications each now exceeds time spent on the phone.
Consider that our phones are capable of storing vast amounts of valuable information; holding details of our contacts and our appointments; accessing valuable services like our bank accounts; and even accessing our company’s network. Then consider how easily those small devices are lost, mislaid or stolen. I think you might begin to understand how important it is to protect that important part of your life.
So, start to think of your phone as you would your computer or your wallet. Don’t make it easy to steal. Make sure it is protected – set a PIN on the device, set it to blank the screen after a short time, and require a passcode to re-activate it. Yes, it will be less convenient, but you will be more secure
You can also register your phone at www.immobilise.com. That way, if it is stolen, it makes it easier for the account to be locked. You would also be well advised to make a note of the IMEA number.
Take care when downloading apps as well. Make sure you trust the provider. It is true that viruses and other malicious software are still rare, but the prize for the criminal fraternity is large so expect it to increase. Don’t let it be you who is caught out.
For a more detailed mobile phone security check-list I have provided more detail at www.itsolve.co.uk.
Security is always something you would rather not do – but “you know it makes sense”.
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