10 tips to make your phone more secure

Your smartphone is more precious than your wallet, your keys and in some cases, your actual computer when it comes to sensitive information - but we all have that nagging guilt that we don't do enough to protect our devices beyond perhaps having a four digit pass code.

Thankfully we are here to help with some top-level tips to help make your phone more secure, protecting those all important messages and images that you don't want falling into the wrong hands.

With around 314 mobiles stolen a day on the streets of London, the risk of things getting out is extremely high.

Of course if you're looking to keep your phone safe from international spies, or snooping networks, you can always check out the BlackPhone... but if you're just the average smartphone user who wants to be a little safer, follow some of our tips below.

1. Update your software

Whether you are running iOS, Android or Windows Phone we will always advise you to grab the latest version of the OS available. This can be a little difficult with Android updates often taking a little while to go through manufacturer and network testing but is well worth it.

Part of the reason we suggest grabbing the latest OS is because it comes with all the added bonuses whether it's the Control Center of iOS7 or the clear bars on Android KitKat, but also because a lot of security loopholes will have been closed.

These updates don't just pop up in major iterations either; Apple is currently pushing out iOS 7.0.6 in order to close a problem associated with using Apple devices on an unsecured network.

Most manufacturers allow you to set your phone to check for updates automatically, so always make sure this box is ticked.

2. Use a secure lock screen

It seems almost nonsensical in this day and age to not have a basic password on your lock screen, even if it is a basic one. One of the first things we'd suggest is to navigate into your device's security settings and enable a pass lock.

There are obvious benefits to having even a basic lock, but whilst face lock of Android might seem fun it isn't the most secure system out there, with many Google devices rating the effectiveness of each security system so you can make an informed choice.

Pattern unlocks and pins are some of the most secure but if you can handle the hassle we'd always suggest a full alphanumeric password. Also ensure that any boxes that say "make passwords visible" are also unticked.

If you want to take it one step further then we'd also recommend changing your pass code regularly in case someone spots what you've typed in over your shoulder.

3. Install antivirus software

One of the biggest threats that could see data leaked is the less-than-humble virus. The problem isn't as widespread as on desktop computers, and if you don't download dodgy software chances are that within a 2 year contract you won't come across anything malicious, but there is still a credible threat out there.

The problem appears to be less hazardous for iPhones thanks to Apple's strict controlling of the App store. The open source nature of Android makes it a lot more vulnerable, as malicious apps can be sideloaded onto the device without being checked by Google. In both cases this is something that can be countered through the use of mobile Antivirus software.

The likes of McAfee, AVG and Lookout grace both the iOS App Store and the Google Play store for added security, but obviously be careful of any apps that seem a little suspicious.

If you're really worried check out the manufacturer's website as most will come with a link to their mobile app.

4. Disable apps from untrusted sources and don't root or jailbreak

Whilst it can often be a nice idea to download and install apps that aren't found on the App Store or Google Play Store, these apps tend to be the ones that are less secure. Google, Apple and Microsoft, as well as the likes of BlackBerry, keep tabs on the apps that are on their app portals.

This means apps that contain malicious code are likely to have been removed before you install them.

Rooting your Android phone or jailbreaking your iPhone can also prove really dangerous, especially if you don't know what you're doing. This is because it breaks down your OS and provides you access to the basic code within and if you can get access, malicious code has a much easier route to making changes too.

If you're more familiar with the world of rooting and jailbreaking then you'll have taken measures to ensure the security of your device - so make sure you're certain you know what you want when altering your handset.

5. Use lock code apps and vaults

One thing that can be particularly important for protecting vital messages and pictures is to add a second layer of security. If you've got a pass code that somehow manages to get into the wrong hands then all your data could potentially be at risk.

With another app you can then add another layer of security by protecting apps with a second code. Vault apps also allow you to be safe by storing all the files that you want to secure within a dedicated area of your device or on an SD card, as well as being able to wipe the data after unsuccessful log in attempts.

Samsung's new Galaxy S5 features a fingerprint scanner to hide certain parts of your phone too - it might not be the easiest thing to use, but at least you can be doubly secure that nobody can get into the places you want hidden.

6. Use kid/guest modes

Kid modes, and to a lesser extent guest modes, are also vitally important. The last thing you want is for your child (or your friend) to be messing around on your phone and to stumble across private data, or to later find that they have inadvertently called your boss whilst you're sat discussing a job interview.

These are now prevalent on most Android and Windows devices, as well as being downloadable via the App Store on iOS, but make sure you know how to get out of them when your child has finished - so many people must have spent minutes locked in a crocodile game because they forgot the PIN code.

7. Keep Location settings enabled

This is something that is less about protecting your device from being stolen or having your data stolen and is much more about getting your handset back should you lose it.

On iOS there is the 'Find my iPhone' app which is exceptionally easy to install and use, and a similar technique is available via Android.

This doesn't require an app, just navigate to Google Play via a web browser, click the settings wheel and hit Android Device Manager. From here you can locate, ring, lock and erase your device if needed.

For Windows Phone go via WindowsPhone.com and log in with your details to spot its location on a map and make it ring, display a message or erase the whole device. If you're still rocking a BlackBerry, you can use the BlackBerry Protect tool to achieve a similar thing. This needs to be preset on the BlackBerry device, however.

8. Use wearable tech

One of the key features that can be found within the likes of the Sony SmartWatch 2 or the Galaxy Gear 2 is the ability to know when you've left your phone behind. As the Bluetooth connection is broken when out of range, the watch buzzes to let you know.

It is also possible to make your phone ring if still in range. This is useful beyond being able to locate your phone when you've dropped it down the back of the sofa; if you know the phone is in reach and but not on your pocket then you can make it ring and track it down.

9. Set up a SIM lock

On top of securing your phone, make sure that you've locked your SIM if this is important to you.

A SIM lock (sometimes called a SIM PIN or SIM Security) is especially important if you're tied into an uncapped contract, less so if you're on PAYG. This is because it requires you to input a PIN before you make a call or send a message, vital if you want to ensure that thieves can't run up massive bills. It's not the most efficient way to use your phone, but if you're in a place that worries you, head into your security settings to enable it.

10. Keep sensitive files off your phone

Even better than encrypting your SD card is to make sure the files are never on your phone in the first place.

Having sensitive files on your phone might seem really easy, and with it being the device that you are going to have on your person all the time it seems logical to keep files on it. You might even want to be able to edit documents when out and about, and we see no reason not to.

There is no reason these files need to be on your phone when editing them though. With phones like the HTC One, Galaxy S4 or iPhone 5S able to support external USB drives via a separate cable or through a wireless USB flash drive, there is no need for these sensitive files to ever be on your handset - so pick up a USB On The Go flash drive and you'll be able to have the best of both worlds.

Be smart on the internet

It’s important for adults to educate their children about how to minimize the chances of getting caught up in cyber bullying, so have put the following top 10 tips for parents and care givers to ensure young people remain protected online:

1. Don’t give out your personal information – Don’t put personal details such as your home address, telephone numbers or parent’s work address online as cybercriminals can use this information to create a fake profile with your details
2. What goes online, stays online – Use privacy settings to make sure only your friends and family can see photos you post. Avoid posting holiday plans as criminals have been known to track your movements
3. Check your security and privacy settings – Make sure your social network privacy settings are secured so only your friends can see your personal information and use your privacy settings to restrict who can see your posts, videos and photos
4. Password safety – Sharing your password with your parents is a sensible idea, but avoid sharing your password with your friends, even if they promise they won’t tell anyone! Also, when setting your password, make sure it isn’t something people may guess such as your pet’s name. Use a mixture of letters, numbers and upper and lower case characters
5. Always protect your mobile device – Make sure your mobile phone is pin-protected so all your personal information stored on it is safe. Download a security app which allows you to remotely wipe any personal data, should your mobile be lost or stolen 
6. Don’t talk to strangers online or offline – Don’t meet up with strangers and let your parents know if a stranger has tried to get in contact with you online. Often people you speak to online may not be who they say they are so only share your personal details on social media sites with friends, family and people you already know in the ‘real’ world 
7. Listen to the adults who know – Adults will always be worried about you. Help set their mind at rest and avoid chatting online with strangers or using the internet so long you neglect your real world activities and real world friends
8. Be wary of unsecured or unknown websites – When shopping online, use reputable and known retailers. Make sure any transactions you make only take place across secure web pages which you can identify from the padlock sign in your browser address bar and where the address says https
9. Be careful what links you click on – Avoid clicking links in an email, Instant Message or on your social network unless you are sure the message is from someone you know. Cyber criminals have been known to hack into your friends’ email accounts and social networks to send emails or post messages claiming they are in trouble and asking you to transfer them money. Don’t believe it if it sounds suspicious or offers something unrealistic
10. Make sure your security software is up to date – Security software is now available on all types of devices; mobile phones, tablets and PCs. Make sure you have the latest security software on your devices to stay protected at all times.

12 WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM CYBER CRIME

In a staggering credit card fraud, Bank of Muscat lost $40 million in less than 24 hours last week. This was made possible after hackers breached a heavily secured system of credit card companies in Pune and Bangalore.

Thanks to the sharing culture on social media, it has become as easy to be fall prey to a cybercrime as it is to press the 'like' button on Facebook. Phishing emails purportedly from friends, or even from your bank seduce you into clicking on infected links or attachments containing malware, which have the effect of compromising online banking transactions.

While much of the below are technical solutions to prevent you being hacked and scammed, hacking done well is really the skill of tricking human beings, not computers, by preying on their gullibility, taking advantage of our trust, greed or altruistic impulses. Here is a list of Dos and Don'ts that will protect your online accounts from hackers.

Use anti-virus software

Your net-savvy friend may tell you that he doesn't have anti-virus on his computer because it slows things down. But look at it this way, one wrong click and he may have to make the entire college project from scratch.

If in doubt, block

Just say no to social media invitations (such as Facebook-friend or LinkedIn connection requests) from people you don't know. It's the cyber equivalent of inviting home the guy with an eye-patch who stares at you at the bus stop.

More than one e-mail accounts

A hacker who has cracked your main email password has the keys to your [virtual] kingdom. Passwords from the other sites you visit can be reset via your main email account. A criminal can trawl through your emails and find a treasure trove of personal data: from banking to passport details, including your date of birth. A separate account for your bank and other financial accounts, another for shopping and one for social networks is a good idea. If one account is hacked, you won't find everything compromised.

Ignore pop-ups

Pop-ups can contain malicious software which can trick a user into verifying something. "[But if and when you do], a download will be performed in the background, which will install malware. This is known as a drive-by download. Always ignore pop-ups offering things like site surveys on ecommerce sites, as they are sometimes where the malcode is.

Macs are as vulnerable as PCs

Make no mistake, your shiny new Mac-Book Air can be attacked too. It's true that Macs used to be less of a target, simply because criminals used to go after the largest number of users - hat is Windows - but this is changing. Determined attackers are able to find new ways to exploit users on almost any platform.

Two-step verification

If your email or cloud service offers it - Gmail, Dropbox, Apple and Facebook do - take the trouble to set this up. In addition to entering your password, you are also asked to enter a verification code sent via SMS to your phone. So a hacker might crack your password, but without the unique and temporary verification code should not be able to access your account. Keying in a password or code 40-plus times a day might seem like a hassle but it is your first line of defence.

Only shop online on secure sites

Before entering your card details, always ensure that the locked padlock or unbroken key symbol is showing in your browser. Additionally, the beginning of the online retailer's internet address will change from "http" to "https" to indicate a connection is secure. Be wary of sites that change back to http once you've logged on.

Didn't expect, don't click

The golden rule: Hackers infect PCs with malware by luring users to click on a link or open an attachment. Social media has helped criminals profile individuals. They can see what you're interested in or what you [post] about and send you crafted messages, inviting you to click on something. Don't.

Different site, different passwords

Keeping a common password for all online accounts is a lot like having the same key for all locks. Only difference being that it is a lot easier to get hold of the online key. Also never reuse your main email password. But most online users own accounts in over a dozen sites. So either try and use clever variations or start doing some really heavy memory-enhancement exercise.

Don't store your card details on websites

Err on the side of caution when asked if you want to store your credit card details for future use. Mass data security breaches (where credit card details are stolen en masse) aren't common, but why take the risk? The extra 90 seconds it takes to key in your details each time is a small price to pay.

Lock down your FB account

Keeping a common password for all online accounts is a lot like having the same key for all locks. Only difference being that it is a lot easier to get hold of the online key. Also never reuse your main email password. But most online users own accounts in over a dozen sites. So either try and use clever variations or start doing some really heavy memory-enhancement exercise.

Don't store your card details on websites

Err on the side of caution when asked if you want to store your credit card details for future use. Mass data security breaches (where credit card details are stolen en masse) aren't common, but why take the risk? The extra 90 seconds it takes to key in your details each time is a small price to pay.

Instagram Safety Tips For Parents

Teenagers seem to love Instagram more than just about any other age group. This photo-centric social network seems to thrive by catering to everyone’s inner-narcissist. Unlike Facebook, Instagram seems to focus on pure aesthetics, it’s all about the picture, the filter, or not having a filter.

If your child is part of the selfie generation and has a large Instagram following. they might feel like they are some kind of a rock star.

Unfortunately, the trap is that to stay popular or gain popularity, a lot of Instragrammers will start pushing the envelope with their picture content, whether it be photos of themselves or others.

The other thing that should rightly concern parents is that, like Twitter, there are Instagram “followers”. Followers on Instagram are a little higher on the creepy level in my opinion because they are following a stream of pictures of your child's life. That’s just inherently creepy to know that random strangers are interested in looking at pictures of your kids.

Here Are Some Instagram Safety Tips to Help You Keep Your Kids Safe

1. Have Them Purge Unknowns From Their Followers List:

No one wants to be the bad guy but sometimes you just have to be in order to protect your kids. Instagram has 'followers' similar to Twitter. Anyone on Instagram can potentially see pictures/videos that your child posts unless your child is using private account mode and is using its provided access restrictions.

You need to make it a condition of use that you be allowed to periodically review your child's Instagram follower list and ask them questions such as:

Who is this person following you?

How do you know them?

If the answers are "I don't know them" and "I've never met them" then you should have them removed them from their followers list.

Your kids may argue that their follower stats are a measure of popularity and that they don't want to lower their stats, thus becoming less popular. You need to explain that unknown followers seeing their private photos are not a risk that is acceptable to you regardless of popularity.

Review this list with them often and remove people who have no connection or aren't age-appropriate friends.

2. Have Them Enable "Private Account" Mode

Instagram's Private Account mode makes it so that only people you approve as followers can follow you. So instead of the whole world having access to everything your child posts, they can choose who they want to be able to follow them. As their parent, this should be a setting that you mandate they set. It should help to cut down on the number of random creepy followers that seem to accumulate over time.

3. Get Their Pictures Off The Instagram Map (Remove Geotags)

Instagram has a map that may show where your child's pictures were taken.  It does this based on the geotagged photo capability of their smartphone. Stalkers Love Geotags, which is why you are probably going to want your kids to remove their geotagged locations. Check out this article on How to Remove Your Geotags From The Instagram Map for full details on how to perform this process.

4. Prevent Future Location Sharing

In order to turn off Instagram's ability to geotag future photos, you need to disable its access to your child's phone's location services. For iOS-based devices go the Settings app, choose "Privacy"  > "Location Services" > "Instagram" and then select "Never" under the "Allow Location Access" section. For Android-based phones, check the ​Instagram help site for information on disabling geotags.

5. Don't Let Them Post Personal Info on Their Instagram Profile

Check out the information on their Instagram profile. Instagram allows you to list personal information such as your real name and phone number.

Make sure they don't have anything in their profile that would allow someone to contact them directly or learn their whereabouts.