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Cybersecurity Month: Get tips to improve your mobile device security

Campus Updates
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Editor’s Note: As of June 30, 2019, Case Western Reserve uses Rave Guardian. CWRU Shield is no longer active and should be deleted from all mobile devices. Download Rave Guardian on the App Store and Google Play.

In honor of Cybersecurity Month, University Technology ([U]Tech) is sharing tips, links, articles and more throughout October to help keep you cyber-secure.

Each week, [U]Tech will focus on a different topic, with this week centering on mobile device security.

Are you keeping your mobile devices as protected as possible? Start with your connection. Make sure you know the security levels, concerns and considerations of any wireless network you are using. When possible, configure your device to use CaseWireless campuswide.

Settings for Security

Almost every device can be made more secure and private with just a few clicks by turning on basic measures in its settings.

Among others, these include:

  1. Use a passcode; consider using a pattern or fingerprint if you can.
  2. Set the screen to lock when the device is not in use.
  3. Use encryption to protect your data.
  4. Backup your data online or to your computer.
  5. Reduce the idle time before sleep.
  6. Limit the notifications that appear on your home screen.

Apps for Safety

Download apps to make your device even more secure.

Some suggested apps are:

  • CWRU Shield can increase your personal security on campus and respond to emergencies.
  • Duo Mobile is the key app for DuoSecurity “two-factor authentication.” It provides added authentication of CWRU systems in case of compromised password or lost phone.
  • Apps for mobile security and malware detection such as Lookout.
  • Google Device Policy (Android) or Find My iPhone permit you to monitor the location, send an alarm and remotely wipe your mobile device.

Additional tips

Save yourself time and headaches by making regular backups in case of system crash, lost phone or just changing/upgrading to a new device. Common tools include iCloud, Samsung Cloud and local backups (e.g. your desktop’s hard drive).

Finally, be aware that connected mobile devices can be hacked. You can tell by various ways, including unusual or higher bills and the device just acting strangely. Monitor your device’s activity and performance, be alert for oddities and use malware detection/security apps.