Device Security
Why does device security matter?
Many everyday items are now connected to the internet: we explain how to use them safely.
All devices and online accounts require the highest security level. Follow these important security steps here.
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Smart phones: We use our mobile phone for lots of things nowadays, including banking and diary management. If your phone isn't protected by security, losing your phone could mean thieves get access to your personal information.
Protect your phone by reviewing the below relevant settings:
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Apple:
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Google:
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Samsung:
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Huawei:
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Smart devices: Using them safely in your home.
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Gaming devices: Online gaming for families and individuals and for guidance when setting up 2-Step-Verification on your gaming devices follow these quick and simple steps here.
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Guidance for buying & selling second-hand devices: How to erase the personal data from your phone, tablets, and other devices (and why it's important when you're buying and selling them)
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Apps and games: For a breakdown of everything you need to know click here. Here you can select 'view this guide' and then select 'click here to download'. You will then be required to sign-up once to view all relevant guides/posters available.
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Social media and email - Protect your socials.
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How to set up parental controls with BSL here. For other parental control support Internet Matters offer the best advice and information available to help you engage in your child’s online life and manage the risks they may face online covering all kinds of content from age 0-14+. Parent Zone is another great website packed full of information and resources. Common Sense Media run an app review page, and as we mentioned earlier you can read about apps, how they work and decide if they are appropriate or not.
Should you come across any suspected online abuse imagery or videos, the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) gives people a safe and anonymous place to report it. The IWF works tirelessly to remove this kind of content from the internet to make it a safer place for everyone.
You can make a smart device purchases with your eyes open and important features/advice. Use the links below to read more information:
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Smart TVs – TV support varies from eight years to two, which is far from enough.
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Soundbars – like TVs, some soundbar brands need more clarity and better support.
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Smart speakers – big brand smart speakers offer around five years of support.
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Smart doorbells – upwards of five years with some brands, but many refused to confirm.
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Smart security systems – Amazon, ERA and Yale were the only brands to commit.
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Wireless cameras – a range of brands offer five years or more, but one offers just two.
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Smartwatches – support is fairly short for most smartwatch brands.
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Fitness trackers – fitness tracker brands rarely guarantee more than two years.