I know that talking IT lingo and exploring the digital realm is not the “norm” for marketing advice; but I think that it is important to protect myself and my clients, and I wanted to share what I have learned while exploring this very different topic so that you can protect yourself, your clients, and your brand.

I have talked before about how to keep your digital information safe and how to secure your computer, but there are a few steps you can take to protect your mobile devices and help prevent anyone from getting access to your information.

It is no secret that we live in a digital world.  Nearly everyone today owns a cell phone, and carries it with them everywhere they go.  It is safe to say that many people have lost or temporarily misplaced a cell phone or tablet at some point.  What would happen if a hacker got their hands on your mobile device?

We can access our bank accounts from our phones and check email from a tablet. As an independent financial advisor, you may not be working strictly from your phone, but the ability to get more accomplished on the go has opened new doors for security concerns; not only with your information but also with your client’s information.

There are some precautions you can take to ensure that your information is secure.

  • Secure your phone with a password or pin number. This is the simplest and yet underutilized feature available to protect your device. For even more protection you can consider upgrading to a phone that offers fingerprint identification. Fingerprints are unique to each individual, and therefore the best security option for your phone.
  • Download apps only from trusted sites like iTunes or Google Play. You never want to download anything from an untrusted source. Before downloading anything, be sure to check ratings and reviews to make sure that it is all legit and not full of spam and bugs. The same goes for downloading files or opening any type of correspondence from someone you don’t know.
  • Read the application’s permission settings carefully. You need to read the privacy request the app makes so you are fully aware of what they will have access to. This shows how important it is to know what you are giving permission to when you download things onto your device.
  • Backup your data. None of us have a crystal ball, and we never know when technology is going to go on the blitz. We have talked about backing up your computer, but you need to be sure to back up the information from your cell phone and tablet as well. There is nothing worse than losing all of the important information that is on your device along with all of the pictures and phone numbers.
  • Keep your operating system and apps updated. Be sure to check for and download the most recent updates to get the newest security settings and bug fixes. Most companies are constantly working to find problems not only with functionality but also security. They release these fixes in updates, and it is important that you have the latest information available.
  • Log out of sites after you make any payment. I know I have been guilty in the past of just closing out of a window or app when I am finished making a purchase, but this is a terrible practice. You should always make sure that you are logged out of the site/app when you are finished. At least it will prompt for a username and password before someone can see all of your account information.
  • Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® when not in use. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® are not only easy ways for you to access data from your mobile device, but it also opens a way for others to access you and all of your personal information. When you are not using those features, it is always best to turn them off. At the very least make sure you have any features that allow for unknown networks or devices to connect to you turned off. It is worth the extra step to protect your information and privacy.

After you’ve determined whether or not your current security software is reliable, updated your system, and taken steps to secure your devices, you should be much more guarded and far less vulnerable to hacker attacks or mishap that can take place just by losing your mobile device.

Disclaimer: I am not an IT professional.  These are my personal recommendations and ones that I have implemented and found successful in helping to protect myself. As always you should consult a professional regarding your specific needs, hardware, and software.  Your custodian or broker/dealer is also a good resource, and likely provides additional requirements and/or recommendations.


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About Crystal

Crystal Lee Butler, MBA is the owner of Crystal Marketing Solutions, a full-service marketing agency dedicated to working specifically with independent financial advisors. Since 2011, she’s helped financial advisors cut through the noise to attract ideal clients and grow their businesses using proven strategies that we use with our clients every day. As your “Chief Marketing Officer,” our goal is to help you grow your business and put time back on your calendar so that you can focus on what you do best: serving your clients.

This website is marketing advertising and does not establish a client relationship, which is only formed when you have signed an engagement agreement. We do not guarantee results and past results do not guarantee future results.

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