Computersight > Hardware

10 Tips on Safeguarding Phones Against Malware

by Zacki, Oct 6, 2008

This article will help readers the tips and information on how to safeguarding their mobile phone. It is easy ways to prevent an protect your phone against mobile malware.

Make sure that you familiar with all features and functions of your mobile phone. If comes with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, switch them off when not in use. It will keep your battery running longer and helps to protect your phones against mobile malware.
Avoid using unknown free security software or those that are offered at an economical rate which can potentially cause damage to your phone. Always find comprehensive information and buy authentic or signed security software to your phone.
Confirm with mobile operator the security product that you will be provided with. Beware of pirated software tat can infect the mobile phone within seconds.
Update the security software you have installed regularly. Be aware of rising mobile threats and find out the solution that your software vendor can provided.
Keep yourself updated on what a virus-infected SMS (short messaging service) and MMS (multimedia messaging service) look like so that you can take the necessary precautions
Never reply to an SMS from a number that you do not recognize especially those which demands for your personal information. Same goes with for missed calls that you receive, do not return the call to an unfamiliar number.
Avoid participating in scams that come to you through SMS especially when it is too good to be true and report them to your mobile operator right away
If you keep receiving spam messages on your mobile phone, do not respond to any of them. You should also report them to your mobile phone operator.
Never accept any incoming connections, applications or massage via Bluetooth if you have no idea who it is from. If the requests keep coming and you need to use your mobile phone urgently, walk away because Bluetooth has a limited range of 10 meters and remember to switch off your Bluetooth or set it to non-discoverable mode.
You should also keep a backup of your mobile phone's information. Always keep a copy of the serial or also commonly referred as IMEI (International mobile Equipment Identity) number of your phone so that you can ask your mobile operator to block your phone if it is stolen or lost. You can find your IMEI number printed on your phone under the battery. In addition, data on your stolen phone can be deleted remotely by a specially crafted SMS or a trigger of events sent to the phone.