Although a smartphone is a great convenience, if it ends up in the wrong hands, it could become a convenient tool to be used against you. That is why the private investigators in Boise have put together this list of tips to help you keep you data and information secure. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself from hackers.

1 – Don’t Share Your Cell Number

This may seem harmless but you really should be careful who knows your cell number. It is something you should guard in much the same manner you do your social insurance number. The data and information stored on your smartphone equates to providing someone with access to your home, your activities and your life.

2 – Be Careful With Text Messages

Not all text messages are dangerous but you do need to be aware of the fact that not all sources are legitimate. The private investigators in Boise say that if you receive one from a number you do not recognize, do not open it or click on links contained in the message. The ones to pay particular attention to are ones announcing you have been selected as a winner of a prize.

3 – Update It Frequently

One way to build a wall between your cell phone information and a hacker is if you keep the operating system current. You will receive a notice telling you that an update is available and if you download this, you are actually protecting yourself because operating system updates usually include improved software protection.

4 – Use A Passcode

The private investigators in Boise point to having a passcode on your phone as a great first line of defense. Essentially this prevents anyone from picking up your device and using it at random. If you set a passcode, the device can’t be used until the correct passcode is entered to ‘unlock’ the device.

5 – Use The Tracker Option

Your smartphone will contain a ‘tracker’ program that you can activate. What this does is allows you to remotely find your phone with GPS technology should it go missing. Also, you can activate an option that will allow you to erase all data on the phone remotely so if someone does take your device, you can locate it and destroy information before it can be used.

The Private Investigators in Boise Are On Your Side

If you take these steps to protect yourself and the private information you have stored on your smartphone, you are controlling your risk. By doing this, you greatly reduce the chance of giving a hacker an open book to you and your life. For more information contact the private investigators in Boise at Custer Agency today.