6 steps to protect your phone

Today, mobile phones have become as much a part of our lives as our computers. Often, not only do they house all our contacts, but also our email, social network accounts, photos and important documents. Here's a list of ways you can protect your data in case of theft or loss.

1. Lock the SIM card

SIM cards usually come with a PIN or PUK code. In case you lose your phone, you can use this code to block your SIM card. The PIN is a Personal Identification Number which you can activate or inactivate. A PIN2 code is a secondary layer of protection, which functions the same way as a PIN code.

In case an incorrect PIN code is entered repeatedly, your phone may request a PUK code (Personal Unblocking Key). This is an 8-digit code provided by your service provider.

2. Use a security code

You can also choose to enter a security code for your phone. This is different from a PIN code – it prevents unauthorised access to your phone. In case of Nokia phones, the default security code is 12345.

3. Set a remote lock password

In case your phone gets misplaced, you can also remotely lock it. Set your remote lock password on your phone, and in an unfortunate event, simply text it to your phone. This will lock both the phone and the memory card.

4. Protect your memory card

You can also safeguard the data on your memory card by locking it with a password. While you won't need to enter the password every time you use it on your phone, you will need to punch it in to use it on a different handset.

5. Make a note of your IMEI number

IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. This is a 15-digit unique code provided for all phones on the GSM network. You can retrieve your IMEI code by punching in ‘#06#' on your phone. Make a note of this number as soon as you get the phone, as it is useful for the authorities and your service provider to track the phone.

6. Safeguard against viruses

A relatively new hazard to mobile phone users are viruses. While you might be familiar with computer viruses, dealing with a mobile phone virus is a completely different ball game. Here's what you can do to tackle the situation.

Firstly, disable your Bluetooth, or make your phone invisible. Never download a Bluetooth file from a source that you're unsure of or not expecting. In case you find that someone is repeatedly trying to send you a file, turn off Bluetooth or simply move away – once you're out of radius there's no danger.

Secondly, never download apps from file-sharing websites. Use only trusted sources, like the Android Market, App Store, Ovi Store or Windows Marketplace. In case your phone gets infected by a virus, you might have to reinstall the OS, or do a factory reset of your phone. The best bet would be to install a mobile phone anti-virus like Kaspersky to prevent any infection.

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