By Ritesh Chopra
The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year, and a time when many of us receive new gadgets- gaming devices, laptops, smartphones, ebook readers, smart children's toys, wireless speakers, smart watches and other wearable fitness devices. We get it. The minute you take your new gadget out of the box, you immediately want to get down to business on it. But, what if we told you that you needed to secure the device before you could play on it? Bummer, right? Of course it is -- but not as big of a bummer as identity theft. It is important to understand how best to protect these shiny new gadgets, not only from viruses and assorted malware, but also from the other elements as well. Let's take a quick look some best practices you should resolve to follow in 2016:
The Insurance FactorAccording to the Norton Cyber Security Insights Report mobile device theft, was the most common form of security breach in India, almost twice the global average. Is it worth insuring your new gadgets? If it's a smartphone or something similar, insurance isn't a bad idea. Insurance is available through third-party sources as well as.
Security and Software UpdatesEnsuring security measures are fully updated on old and new devices is wise, as outdated security leaves gadgets vulnerable to cybercriminals and hackers. And since people have all kinds of personal information stored on their mobile devices, updating device security is one of the best things you can do. In addition to updating security on your devices, you'll want to update the software regularly. Doing so provides extra protection, as any device with outdated software is in danger of being hacked. Perform software updates whenever you receive a notification to keep your devices in top form.
PasswordsMany people make the mistake of using passwords that are too simple. Yes, your maiden name is a nice password, however it's also much easier to crack than a term laden with numbers and symbols in addition to letters. While using an easy password should be avoided, sharing passwords is a complete no no altogether. The Norton Cyber Security Insights report revealed that almost one in four Indians share passwords as a common practice. In today's fast-paced, high-tech world, there's no such thing as a password that's too complicated. Changing your passwords every so often is also suggested to protect new and current tech.
Phone PasscodesPhone passcodes are another important topic. Opening your phone with a single swipe may be convenient, but it also means the device is vulnerable to anyone who picks it up. Only 41% of consumers in India "always" use a secure password and one in three do not have any password on their smartphone. Hence, use a passcode on your phone, and make certain it auto-locks. That extra bit of security can go a long way.
Durable CasesAlthough most devices can withstand getting dropped in a rain puddle, pool, or toilet, but that sinking feeling you get when you see your phone slip out of your hands is not something you can ignore. If you're concerned about your device being subjected to the elements, consider investing in a waterproof case. Numerous slim, sleek "protective skins" exist today, allowing you to shield your device from destruction without adding serious bulk to your purse or pants pocket.
Safe Wi-Fi UseRather than connecting your phone, tablet, laptop, or other device to any old Wi-Fi network, utilize Wi-Fi Protected Access instead. This creates an encrypted, highly secure network connection you can trust.
What Else Can I Do?Wondering what else you can do to protect your brand-new gadgets?
" Read privacy policies thoroughly before agreeing
" Use a system that requires two-factor authentication
" Use anti-malware, firewalls, and similar security tactics where applicable
Keep these tips and suggestions in mind as you embark on the new year and know your devices are safe from threats, whether from hackers or elements around you. Stay up to date on the latest security innovations so you can feel good about the safety of your device.
The author is Country Manager, India, Norton by Symantec
