Is your digital life protected? Are you sure?
By now, most people know the importance of having anti-virus protection on their personal computer; but with more of folks surfing the Internet, reading email, and managing finances on the go, security software is equally as important on your smart phone.
“I think a lot of the cyber criminals have figured out that getting to your mobile device — which, frankly, is a computer in your pocket — that’s a great way to try to rip you off and hijack your personal information.”
Wisconsin Emergency Management’s Tod Pritchard says smart phone owners need to be careful when downloading software applications or clicking on links because infecting mobile devices is a fast-growing trend. There is plenty of security software available for mobiles, but Pritchard warns individuals to be careful when choosing what to install.
“There are a lot of folks who are offering security software that frankly is doing the exact opposite. It’s installing malware onto your computer or onto your mobile device to track information and steal identity.”
Free games, for example, look enticing, but Pritchard says you could be opening the door to all kinds of trouble, including spyware, trojans, and viruses. Ready Wisconsin.wi.gov has more information on protecting your digital identity.
October is cyber security awareness month.