6 Methods to Protect Yourself From Hackers

Where is the last public place you visited with Wi-Fi?

Nowadays, almost all coffee shops, libraries, airports, and hotels offer access to the Internet via your mobile phone or other mobile device. That means the information you have on your phone can be accessed from local providers - unless you take steps to protect your data. Here are a few suggestions from the University of Michigan:

1)  Do not access personal or financial data via public Wi-Fi.

This may seem absurd, but you may be surprised at how many people check their bank accounts or pay with a credit card while using public Wi-Fi. It is best to do those things over a secure connection.

2)  Close anything you do not need.

Cybercriminals can use certain features on your phone to access your information, location or connection. So, instead of keeping your GPS, wireless communication and geo-tracking turned on all the time, just turn it on when you need it.

3)  Choose your apps wisely.

Only download applications from trusted sources that have built up a good reputation. Be sure to update your software and applications regularly and remove any older applications that you do not use.

4) Use password, lock code or encryption.

Make sure the passwords are at least eight characters long, with a combination of lowercase letters, and include numbers or other characters, and never use the password-automatic feature. You can use the encryption storage feature on your phone to protect your personal data, and set your screen to expire after five minutes or less.

5) Be keptical about links and attachments.

If you are unsure of the source, do not use the link or open the attachment.

 6) Follow or delete.

Make sure your data is safe if your mobile device is stolen or lost. You can set your device to lock after a pre-set number of failed login attempts.