Welcome back to our series on Increasing Your Business Cybersecurity. In our last post, we discussed the importance of using multi-factor authentication to protect your accounts. Today, we focus on the importance of using a long mobile device PIN and biometrics to safeguard your mobile devices.
The Risks of a Short Mobile Device PIN
Mobile devices have become an integral part of our lives. We rely on them to perform a variety of tasks, including communication and online banking. However, the convenience of having all our personal and sensitive information in one place also comes with some risks. One of the most common ways that hackers gain access to mobile devices is by guessing or cracking the device PIN.
A four-digit PIN, which is the default setting on most mobile devices, can be easily guessed or observed by someone watching over your shoulder. Additionally, hackers can use automated software to guess your PIN, and, with enough attempts, they can crack it. Once a hacker has access to your mobile device, they can gain access to a wealth of personal information, including credit card payment facilities, emails, and other sensitive data.
Using a Long Mobile Device PIN
Using a long PIN is the easiest way to protect your mobile device. A six-digit PIN provides 1 million possible combinations, making it much harder for a hacker to guess or crack. The longer the PIN, the better. In fact, some mobile devices now allow you to set a PIN that is up to 16 digits long. This provides 10 quadrillion possible combinations, making it nearly impossible for a hacker to guess or crack.
When creating a long mobile device PIN, it’s essential to use a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable sequences, such as your birth date or repeating digits. A unique and complex PIN will provide the best protection against hackers.
The Importance of Using Biometrics
In addition to a long PIN, mobile devices now offer biometric authentication, such as fingerprint or facial recognition. Biometric authentication is a more secure and convenient way to protect your mobile device than a PIN.
Biometrics are unique to each individual, making it almost impossible for a hacker to guess or replicate. Additionally, biometric authentication is more convenient since you don’t need to enter a long password or PIN.
However, it’s important to note that biometric authentication is not foolproof. Hackers have found ways to bypass biometric authentication. Therefore, it’s essential to use biometric authentication in combination with a long PIN for maximum security.
Conclusion
Mobile devices have become an essential tool for businesses and individuals alike, and it’s important to take steps to protect them. Using a long and unique PIN and biometric authentication can go a long way to securing your mobile device and the sensitive data it contains.
Remember to use a PIN that is at least ten digits long, with a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols. Avoid easily guessable sequences such as your birth date or repeating digits. And consider using biometric authentication such as fingerprint or facial recognition in combination with a long PIN for maximum security. Furthermore, avoid using your pin in public, and instead favour using your biometric authentication.
Contact Us for Expert Support:
If you need assistance with using long pins and setting up biometrics on your mobile devices within your business, get in contact with New England Business Technology by calling (02) 6771 4072 for expert guidance and support. Our team of experts can help you and provide ongoing support to ensure that your business is protected from potential cyber threats. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Contact us today and take the necessary steps to protect your business.
