Quick tips to help keep your smartphone free of malware.
iPhone and iPad Tips
Set the passcode
- If your iPhone, or any other Apple product, runs iOS it allows the user to configure a passcode. The passcode controls access to the apps and data installed on the device. If you use a passcode content on your Apple device will be secure including saved passwords and mail attachments.
For information on understanding passcodes and setting them up go to the Apple site.
Don't jailbreak
- Apple limits the software you can run on your iPhone or iPad to their apps, unless you jailbreak your mobile device. To avoid chancing malware just download everything through the iPhone app store.
Be careful of where you surf
- Don't be drawn in by scams. This is not a technology decision. This is a decision made by the individual. They are designed to fool you.
Android Tips
Research the app publisher
- Research the app you are considering to download. Does it or any other apps offered by the same publisher seem a shady or untrustworthy? If so, stay away from all of the publisher's apps.
Read online review
- Read online reviews presented by other Web sites. Although not intentional, the Android Market review may not always be truthful.
Check the app permissions
- It is always a good idea to verify the permissions list given for apps whenever you download or update them. If an app is asking for more than what it needs to do it's job, skip it.
Do NOT install .APK files
- For the most part do NOT install Android Package files (APKs). Most of the time you won't know what a .APK file contains until you install it. If you are going to install an .APK file make sure to follow tips one and two. Angry Birds for Android originally was offered as an .APK file. Luckily it did not contain any malware.
Use a malware and antivirus scanner on your phone