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Our latest report on Internet security found that many people use a mobile phone to store contact info, passwords, access to social networks, and maybe even banking and medical data. In short, for a lot of people, a mobile phone is a highly portable—and easy to lose—computer.
But for all the sensitive data in that device, it's not too difficult to protect. Here are three quick tips for keeping your data to yourself:
Set a password or PIN. Keep intruders away from your info by adding a password or PIN to your phone. Start by going to Settings. If you have an iPhone, you'll see a choice for setting a passcode. Android devices have a "Location & security" option.
Take advantage of phone manufacturers' offerings. See if your smart-phone maker offers services like over-the-air backup or remote phone locking. These are really useful features that are usually offered free.
Grab some free security software. While malware isn't as prevalent a problem on smart phones as it is on computers, it is beginning to crop up. A recent attack called Droid Dream infected about 260,000 Android phones. Look for free software, like that from Lookout, to protect you from smart phone malware.
More advice on how to protect yourself can be found in the report, the June issue of Consumer Reports, and on ConsumerReports.org.
—Donna L. Tapellini
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