Mobile phones have for many people, become their entire world. If your phone gets taken, what do you lose? All those phone numbers that you haven’t remembered or backed up anywhere else. Those apps which automatically log you on without a password. Important pictures, perhaps of special moments in your life that you’ll never experience again.
A mobile phone is a small, unassuming piece of equipment which if lost could cause you serious problems.
So how do we protect it?
- Secure your phone
There are several important first-line defensive measures you need to take. If your phone doesn’t have some form of authentication on the lock screen, you’re an absolute lunatic. It might be the form of a PIN, or biometrics with a fingerprint sensor. It could be one of the many other options such as an sequence trace or facial ID, but all that matters is that you have it and use it.
In terms of physical security, consider the use of a phone strap / cable which keeps the device secured to your pocket / belt / handbag, etc.
- Backup your phone
Some elements of your phone can be backed up automatically, such as conversations, SMSs, galleries, etc. If you are in any doubt however, then the most effective solution is to at least once a week, plug your phone in to your laptop / PC / tablet and download everything that’s important. Remember, Cloud services are only as secure or reliable as the host decides to make them, and even the mightiest fall, or suddenly change their Terms & Conditions (BBC 12th Nov 2020)
- Keep it hidden
Do not keep your phone in your rear trouser pocket!The amount of people who seem to think it’s acceptable to put £500+ worth of tech in their back pocket where they cannot see it, boggles the mind. You might think you’d be able to tell if it was taken, but even if you were, what about the precious few seconds it takes you to react? In a crowded place, the perpetrator is gone, as is your phone. Keep it concealed, preferably in a secure space such as a handbag / purse or inside pocket.
- Be vigilant when using it
It’s illegal to use your mobile phone when driving. This is because it has been proven to distract you from the dangers ahead of you (Institute of Advanced Motorists). The exact same applies when you’re walking. If you’re head down, looking at your screen, you won’t see the threat until it’s too late. If you need to use your phone, stop and put your back to a wall. Look around you, assess the risk, and then use it. Keep glancing up from time to time to make sure the situation around you hasn’t deteriorated in terms of risk and your safety.
- Keep it with you at all times
This might seem obvious, but take a look around the next time you’re out and see how many people leave their phone sitting unattended. Even when it’s nearby, having a phone out in a table in a pub for example, makes it easy to snatch it and run, whilst you’re sat down and have to spend precious seconds responding. Don’t ever let it out of your grasp. If you’re not using it, put it away in it’s secure place!
- Know the IMEI
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is important for several reasons. The Police won’t take a report of a theft of a mobile phone unless you have the IMEI. This is so the phone can be verified as a real thing, and prevents fraudulent claims. Your insurers will ask for the IMEI as well if you decide to make a claim. Most importantly, having the IMEI means you can contact your carrier (BT, 3, EE, etc) and ask them to block your phone. Reporting to your carrier means your contract will be suspended or reallocated to a new phone and IMEI, or that they might even be able to block your phone so it can’t be reused.
Find your IMEI on Android or Apple by dialling: *#06#
BBC News. 2020. Google Photos Abandons Unlimited Uploads
Institute of Advanced Motorists 2010. Don’t Poke Me I’m Driving