When was the last time you sat in a coffee shop or airport and used the free Wi-Fi? We all do, but did you know that by doing this you could be compromising your personal information? Here are a few recommendations from the University of Michigan on how you can better protect your personal information:
- Don’t access personal or financial data with public Wi-Fi –
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people check their bank accounts or make purchases with a credit card while using public Wi-Fi. It’s best to do those things on a secure connection.
- Turn off anything you don’t need –
Hackers can use certain features on your phone to get at your information, location or connection. So, instead of keeping your GPS, wireless connection and geo-tracking on all the time, just turn them on when you need them.
- Choose your apps wisely –
Only download apps from trustworthy sources that have established a good reputation. Make sure you update your software and apps regularly and get rid of old apps you don’t use.
- Use a password, lock code or encryption –
Make sure your passwords are at least eight characters long, with a mix of upper and lower case, and include numbers or other characters, and never use the auto-complete feature for passwords. You can use the storage encryption feature on your phone to protect your private data and set your screen to timeout after five minutes or less.
- Be skeptical about links and attachments –
If you’re not sure about the source, don’t use the link or open the attachment.
- Trace or erase. Make sure your data is secure if your mobile device is stolen or lost. You can set up your device to lock itself after a pre-set number of failed log-in attempts.
At CAV Insurance in Wellesley, MA wework with companies like Chubb who offer a broad range of protection to help keep you and your family safe.