Smartphones are today's answer to a disorganized life. You can buy anything with just a few swipes, schedule appointments, and access your photos in this one, convenient spot.
You can also manage your accounts, check your balances and deposit checks through Tyndall's mobile banking app or through Tyndall Online Banking on any browser.
All of that convenience comes at a price: your mobile device can pose an inherent risk to your security if they fall into the wrong hands. Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself!
Here are 6 tips for keeping your device safe and secure:
1. Keep your phone locked
If your entire life is on your phone, you run the risk of giving a thief access to your identity if it's stolen or misplaced. The best way to prevent this from happening is to have a lock on your screen.
Opt for a physical lock if possible, such as fingerprint or face recognition. Finally, adjust your phone’s lock settings so the screen automatically locks after the shortest amount of idle time. (This can also protect from unwanted or surprise purchases from children who get a hold of devices that are not locked.)
2. Choose strong, unique passwords across all your devices and apps
Passwords should be a blend of letters with varied capitalization use, numbers and symbols. Use a different password for each device, app and other online
accounts. Also, change up your passwords every six months or so. Don’t keep a password list on your device or computer. If you want your passwords stored all in one place, research password managers to keep them secure.”
3. Browse safely
Look for the padlock icon and the “s'' after the “http” in the URL of each landing page you visit. If you are contacted by a “Tyndall representative” regarding an
issue with your account, and you are unsure if it is legitimate, contact us directly through a secure channel to confirm your suspicions. If it is a Tyndall representative on the line, he or she will understand and be happy to have you reach
back out to us. Never share your personally identifiable information (PII) with an unknown contact. Don’t store your credit card info in online shopping accounts. Keep your security settings current. Avoid
clicking on pop-up ads or links in emails from unverified senders.
4. Use secure Wi-Fi
Using public Wi-Fi makes you vulnerable to hacking. It’s best not to use public Wi-Fi at all, especially when banking online.
To keep your device safe while using public Wi-Fi, connect to a virtual private network (VPN). In addition, be sure to keep your own Wi-Fi locked to avoid having strangers access it.
5. Encrypt your data
Your phone
stores loads of your PII (personally identifying information), which can make you vulnerable to identity theft. Protect your information by encrypting all sensitive data on your phone. Most phones have encryption settings, which you can enable easily.
6. Install antivirus software on your phone
The same antivirus programs that protect your laptop can also keep your phone secure. Check out security programs for phones, like McAfee or Norton 360. Antivirus software will
provide your phone with protection from security breaches and attacks from scammers.