Steps you can take to protect yourself

If you are using a smartphone, tablet, or any other mobile device, follow these guidelines to protect yourself:

• Always use extra caution and install only approved applications available through your vendor's official application store.

  Also, be sure to check any feedback from the download site. This can clue you into any known issues.

• Do not jailbreak or root your smartphone or tablet computer, as this disables critical security features in the device's operating system.

• Before using Wi-Fi hotspot functionality, including smartphones and portable hotspot devices, WPA2 Wi-Fi encryption security must be enabled and configured with a strong password to prevent unauthorized access to the Wi-Fi network created by the device.

• Use a password/pin that is difficult for others to guess.

  There is an advanced feature that you can use, known as two-factor authentication. Ask your vendor/application provider if they support this.

• Change your phone and voicemail password...