You just bought the latest smartphone. You loaded all your favorite apps online banking, GPS, even an app to track your health.But now your phone is full of information about you how much money you have, where you are and whether youve gained a little weight. Your information can cause problems if its in the wrong hands. Want to protect it These tips are for you:Set your phone to lock automatically. When you dont use your phone for a few minutes, the phone should automatically lock itself and require a password to reopen.Use passwords for your phone. In addition to a password to unlock your phone, use different passwords for each shopping or financial app.Dont share your passwords with anyone.Be wise about Wi-Fi. Dont send personal information on a public wireless network in a coffee shop, library or hotel. Wait until you can use an encrypted Wi-Fi network that requires a password.Foil phishing attempts.Dont text or email personal information, and delete any texts or email messages that ask for it. If you must give out personal information, do it only if you type in the organizations web address yourself and you see signs that the site is secure either https (the s stands for secure) or a lock icon.Connect to Bluetooth carefully. Bluetooth makes it easier for you to connect your phone with other devices. But, like other wireless connections, Bluetooth also can make it easier for thieves to steal your personal information. So, connect to Bluetooth in private, uncrowded areas only. Dont forget to turn off Bluetooth when you arent using it.Now youre ready to start using your new phone, right Before you toss your old smartphone, remove all your personal information. Its important to protect your personal information from the moment you start using your phone until you get rid of it.To learn more, check out our articles on keeping your personal information secure and understanding mobile apps.
Lisa Weintraub Schifferle
Attorney, FTC
Topics: Be Smart OnlineTagged with: app, cell phone, mobile, password, phishing, privacy, Wi-FiSource: www.onguardonline.gov
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