It's important to protect your smart mobile phone and computer from security threats, so you can minimise the risks and feel confident about internet banking and shopping. Here's some information about the threats and how to protect against them.
Today's mobile technology makes fraud easier, especially through mobile malicious software, also known as malware. This lets criminals take control by downloading software onto your mobile, normally by tricking you through hoax texts, fake mobile apps, or by hacking your mobile through unprotected wi-fi connections.
Keep your mobile infection free
If your phone is infected, fraudsters could make calls (e.g. to premium rate numbers), access internet banking, social networking and online shopping. In places with unsecure wi-fi, they could access personal information and even your cash. It's like a fraudster having your debit card and PIN, and you may not realise it until it's too late.
Make your phone useless to others
Locking mobile devices prevents access to any information you have stored in the event of you losing that device.
Don't feel blue
Turn off your bluetooth when you're not using it to stop unwanted messages that could contain malware.
Block premium calls and texts
By getting your phone company to block your phone from making premium calls and texts it stops potential criminals using it for this purpose, and means no accidental high costs by yourself.
Ensure you trust the source of the app you're downloading and that you know it's not going to damage your device.