Cyber security & why your phone needs it

The government's Security Breaches Survey found that 74% of small to medium-sized organisations reported a security breach in the past year, up on previous years.

Mobile malware is becoming increasingly prevalent and sophisticated. It can make your phone or tablet unusable or cause your phone to call premium numbers, racking up your bill. Ransomware can lock you out of your device until you pay up. Perhaps most damagingly, it could give hackers access to your company data, including contacts and bank details.

Part of the problem is that phones use a variety of ways to connect, including email, text messages, web browsing, social media apps, wi-fi, bluetooth and NFC (near field communication); any of these could be a way in for malware. Here are some key ways to protect yourself and your business.

Update your protection: Your device's operating system updates don't just add cool new features, they also install the latest malware barriers, so next time you get a prompt to update Android or iOS, don't delay.

Use a password: At the very least your devices should be protected by a PIN number or password. One of the most common ways for cybercriminals to get access to your data is from picking up a phone that's been lost or even just left lying around. Fingerprint scanning is generally secure but can lead to even greater problems if it's compromised. You can change your password, but not your fingerprint after all.

Use a security app: Some security apps give you an extra level of protection. They'll allow you to locate your device if it goes missing and wipe all its content if you can't get to it. Some device manufacturers have their own security services too.

Back up your data: Your contacts, documents and messages should be backed up in a secure location in the cloud. That way, even if your device goes missing, you've still got everything you need, and hopefully you can remote wipe your sensitive data.

Be suspicious: You know not to click on links in emails on your computer, right? The same goes for emails on your phone, and in your text messages and any messaging apps you use.

Be careful with apps: The latest Mobile Threat Report by cyber security experts McAfee found that of 150m apps scanned in 119 countries, a massive 9m were found to contain malware. Always check reviews and trust scores before you download.

Use security policies: If you have employees using company devices you really should develop a security policy and implement it throughout, including BYOD (bring your own device) items and preferably including limits on download ability.

McAfee Multi Access from O2 protects up to five devices from viruses, spam, malware and identity theft.