Tips for securing your devices while travelling

BANGALORE, INDIA: Vacations are about having fun and getting away, but these days we also want to stay connected. Chances are, you will want to check your email, access your bank and social media accounts, post vacation photos, and maybe even keep the kids entertained during long flights with online games.

But if you’re like most consumers, you don’t have your mobile gadgets protected from device and data loss or even mobile malware. How would you feel if you lost all of your digital data? With these tips from McAfee, you won’t have to find out!

Given these threats, Vinoo Thomas, Product Manager, McAfee Labs recommends the following safety tips before and during your trip to ensure that your data, devices and family stay safe:

Before You Go:

1) Backup your data–This will ensure that you can retrieve your data, even if your mobile device is lost or stolen.

2) Install antivirus software on your device–Antivirus software is especially important since mobile malware is on the rise. Installing security can provide antivirus and anti-spyware protection, along with a host of other security features across all of your devices: computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

3) Use lock, locate and wipe software–This allows you to remotely lock and delete the information from your device in case it is lost or stolen, as well as locate your device. Software such as McAfee Mobile Security not only includes lock, locate, and wipe capabilities, but it also offers antivirus and anti-spyware protection.

4) Password-protect your device–This way a stranger cannot access the data if your device is lost or left unattended. It is advisable to use a random string of numbers, letters, and symbols rather than your birthday or something that can be easily guessed. You may also want to strengthen the security of your online passwords, especially for banking sites.

5) Be prepared in case your phone is lost or stolen–Have the phone number or website of your carrier with you so you can report a lost or stolen phone and suspend your service if necessary. In some countries, such as the U.K., you need the IMEI number, or serial number of your phone, to file a report with the police. Check online for how to retrieve your IMEI number.