There are no I.T professionals amongst the *Mums World* Admin Team. Information has been collated from reputable websites which will be listed at the end of the topic. Becks and Lilly
What is a Smartphone?
A Smartphone is a mobile phone built on a mobile operating system, with more advanced computing capability and connectivity than a feature phone. Many modern Smartphone’s also include high-resolution touch screens and web browsers that display standard web pages as well as mobile-optimized sites. High-speed data access is provided by Wi-Fi and mobile broadband. In recent years, the rapid development of mobile app markets and of mobile commerce have been drivers of Smartphone adoption.
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What is a tablet?
A tablet computer, or simply tablet, is a one-piece mobile computer. Devices typically offer a touchscreen, with finger (or stylus) gestures acting as the primary means of control.
What are the risks’ of using my Smartphone or tablet when I’m out?
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People gaining access to your online activity if you are using an unsecured or illicit wireless network.
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People accessing your device via Bluetooth to either send you unwanted texts exploit your contacts list or access your handset’s commands.
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‘Shoulder surfing’ – people viewing your screen.
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Loss or theft of your device.
These day’s we take using WIFI as granted when using it you need to ensure the wireless network is a secure one.Wherever possible, use well-known, commercial hotspot providers such as BT OpenZone or T-Mobile.
Bluetooth – how can I prevent people sending me things I don’t want?
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Ensure that your Bluetooth is switched off when you do not need to use it.
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If you do use Bluetooth, make sure that your devices are not left ‘discoverable’.
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Do not pair devices in public in case someone is scanning you while you create the connection.
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If possible, restrict access to known, paired devices.
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Do not accept files transmitted via Bluetooth from unknown or suspicious sources.
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QR Codes
I don’t know about you – but QR Codes confuse me! QR stands for Quick Response and is afast and effortless way to reach advertisers’ websites, direct from your smartphone or tablet. To use these your phone will need a QR reader which is easily downloadable.
QR Codes can be rather dangerous. You can’t see exactly what is there unlike looking on a website and you run the chance of going to a fraudulent website. NEVER enter any details after going through a QR code and ensure the code is from a reputable source before you go to use it.
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Identity Theft/Fraud
Identity theft happens when fraudsters access enough information about someone’s identity (such as their name, date of birth, current or previous addresses) to commit identity fraud. Identity theft can take place whether the fraud victim is alive or deceased.
If you’re a victim of identity theft, it can lead to fraud that can have a direct impact on your personal finances and could also make it difficult for you to obtain loans, credit cards or a mortgage until the matter is resolved.
Identity fraud can be described as the use of that stolen identity in criminal activity to obtain goods or services by deception. Fraudsters can use your identity details to:
open bank accounts
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obtain credit cards, loans and state benefits
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order goods in your name
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take over your existing accounts
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take out mobile phone contracts
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obtain genuine documents such as passports and driving licences in your name.
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Protect yourself against identity fraud
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Don’t throw out anything with your name, address or financial details without shredding it first.
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If you receive an unsolicited email or phone call from what appears to be your bank or building society asking for your security details, never reveal your full password, login details or account numbers. Be aware that a bank will never ask for your PIN or for a whole security number or password.
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If you are concerned about the source of a call, ask the caller to give you a main switchboard number for you to call them back on. Alternatively, hang up and call your bank back on the legitimate phone number printed on your bank statements.
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Check your statements carefully and report anything suspicious to the bank or financial service provider concerned.
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Don’t leave things like bills lying around for others to look at.
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If you’re expecting a bank or credit card statement and it doesn’t arrive, tell your bank or Credit Card Company.
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If you move house, ask Royal Mail to redirect your post for at least a year.
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The three credit reference agencies offer a credit report checking service to alert you to any key changes on your credit file that could indicate potential fraudulent activity. • Callcredit • Equifax • Experian
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It is particularly helpful to check your personal credit file 2-3 months after you have moved house.
Many thanks to the following sites where we gathered this information:
http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/fraud_protection/identity_fraud
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