Keep your mobile device safe this Easter

With the Easter holidays just around the corner, many people will be packing their bags and heading for the coast. However, the holidays are one of the likeliest times for people to lose their mobile devices.

“With so many ways to lose our beloved (and pricey) mobile gadgets: theft, malware, or sheer forgetfulness, it's a wonder so few of us are securing them with mobile security software that can block attacks, locate a lost device, and even remotely lock or wipe them,” says Simon Campbell-Young, CEO of specialist distributor Phoenix Software.

The cost of device theft and loss is much more than just replacement costs of the devices themselves, and with so much sensitive personal and company information stored on these devices, mobile device theft and loss can cause headaches that last long after the holidays.

Campbell-Young explains that the first step to securing a smartphone or tablet is understanding the risks, and suggests that users take extra precautions to protect their gadgets over the Easter break.

“If it has a screen, protect your machine,” he says. “Even though most users should be in the habit of securing and holding on to their portable computers by now, many are still lost or stolen in transit - especially around the holidays. That means your brand new Motorola Xoom, MacBook Air or iPad 2 could go practically straight from the box into a stranger's hands or fall prey to the growing number of malware attacks that target personal computers.”

Users should install and update a lightweight, high-performance anti-virus program, lock their devices with passwords, and put their names on the back, he suggests. He adds that the key to keeping track of mobile devices is awareness, so security starts with keeping an eye on your gadget.

“Physical security is the best first line of defence,” he explains. “But just in case, never leave devices logged into networks, e-mail or Web sites, and always shut down or use active password-protected screensavers when your mobile device is not in use.”

The same principles apply to smartphones. “Without exception, passwords should be mandatory operating procedure for smartphones, laptops, tablets and any other mobile device with valuable data,” says Campbell-Young. “Purchase and install security and recovery software, which is available for most devices. With a program like AVG Mobilation or Kaspersky Mobile Security, users can locate lost or stolen phones, remotely lock the device to protect it from outside access, and create a customised lock screen message with contact details to help facilitate a return. Users can remotely wipe their phones as well, ensuring total protection of personal information.”

Owners of mobile devices should remember the old adage this holiday season: it's better to be safe than sorry.