Mobile Phone Safety

Mobile phones are a big target for thieves and - given how much we rely on them - a missing smartphone can cost you more than just money. Read on for some top tips on mobile phone security.

1. Hide your mobile phone out of site

Don't leave your phone in an unattended car - 50% of all mobile thefts are from vehicles. If on public transport keep your phone in your bag and out of site.

2. Be aware of Wi-Fi security

Don't connect to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, for example in a coffee shop or train station, unless you really have to look something up that doesn't require you to enter personal details or passwords. You can purchase a mobile broadband dongle if required and get easy, secure internet access on the move.

3. Use the keypad/screen lock

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.

4. Register your mobile phone 

Registering your device at immobilise.com- This enables police to return stolen property as they find it. And if your mobile phone is stolen, report it to the police and to your network as soon as possible.

Your network can block your phone so that even if the Sim card is changed, it will no longer work in the UK.

5. Record the IMEI number

Keep a note of your mobile phone's unique 15-digit IMEI number. This is usually printed under the phone battery, or can be accessed by keying *#06# into most phones. If a mobile phone is stolen, the IMEI number helps your mobile service provider block the phone.

6. Mobile phone insurance

Decide whether to pay for mobile phone insurance. Depending on the type of handset you have it may be cheaper to replace it in the event of theft or damage, rather than paying insurance premiums.

If you do pay for mobile handset insurance and your phone is stolen, make sure you report it within 24 hours as most insurers insist on this as part of the policy terms and conditions.

7. Mobile phone viruses and worms

The good news for mobile phone security is that mobile phone viruses and malware haven't become widespread...yet. Still on Android devices please be careful what you download. iPhones aren’t so widespread to have viruses yet.

To stay safe, if in doubt, don't click on links in SMS or emails on your mobile. If you've got an iPhone, or other smartphone with full mobile internet access, be especially aware of the risks of opening attachments or clicking on links to potentially malicious websites. 

8. Restrict your Bluetooth usage

Turn off Bluetooth when not using it. Blue-jacking, where people nearby send anonymous messages to other phone users who've left Bluetooth switched on, is essentially harmless, but is an invasion of your privacy. Plus, Bluetooth can drain mobile battery power.

10. Keep your mobile phone updated

Make sure your mobile phone's firmware (operating system/OS) is updated to the latest version and patched with any security upgrades. Check out your handset manufacturer's website for updates and downloads that could increase your phone's security.