More and more, consumers are using tablet PCs for both work
and pleasure. But what many users don’t realize is that the security issues are
very similar to those that come with desktop and laptop computing. Viruses and
malware can be spread to mobile devices, as well, although users generally
don’t take the same precautions they do when using more traditional computing
methods.
Tablet usage is primarily focused on the Web, rather than
in-device programs such as word processing. Think about the different things
you typically use your tablet for; most of these involve being connected.
Whether you’re emailing messages and pictures to friends and family, connecting
to the company network or doing some shopping, the bulk of the time you spend
on your tablet is spent online. The very nature of tablets exposes users to the
very threats that plague Internet users connected via their desktops.
Protect your personal
data
One of the biggest reasons to protect your tablet is the
potential breach of your personal data. We’re using tablets for everything from
surfing the web to social networking to banking and payment processing. Each
time you use an Internet connection to send data, there’s at least some risk of
cyber-criminals stealing your information for personal gain.
Your credit card numbers, account numbers and passwords to
your social networks and membership sites can all be stolen and used
maliciously. With proper tablet security in place, you’ll reduce the odds of
this happening as well as the odds of potential identity theft.
Protect your device
Many tablet security programs offer the ability to
remote-locate your device should it be stolen. Some more advanced securities
include the ability to use the device’s camera to take a mugshot of the thief
and to wipe out your data remotely to avoid the theft of valuable information.
Further, most tablets can be locked, meaning if someone
happens to steal it, it’s useless to them anyway unless they’re able to hack
your login information. The user can strengthen this security precaution by
always enabling the login and using effective passwords that aren’t easily
guessed.
Prevent access to
malicious files and Websites
If you’re using a good security program, it can prevent you
from inadvertently accessing sites and files containing automatic downloads and
malicious codes. Once these sites are accessed, hackers can automatically
install malware on your device, allowing them to monitor your activity and log
your data.
Remove malicious
files
Just like using a desktop computer, your tablet device will
occasionally fall victim to spyware and other viruses. A tablet security
program, as long as it’s regularly updated, can help to remove these malicious
programs from your device before they do significant harm.
Tablet computing seems innocent enough, but we’re so
accustomed to being constantly connected that sending sensitive data over a
Wi-Fi connection feels insignificant. But your tablet can be a portal to a
wealth of personal or company information if not properly protected. Treat your
tablet the same way you treat your laptops and desktops by utilizing proven
security software combined with your own precautionary measures and best
practices for general Internet use.
Fergal Glynn is the Director of Product Marketing at Veracode,
an award-winning application security company specializing in Veracode's SQL
injection security solutions and other security breaches with effective risk
assessment tools. For more informations on security solutions from Veracode.com click here.