10 tips on protecting your new internet-connected gadgets

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There’s no doubt that Santa will be delivering everything from iPads and laptops to PS3s and Xbox 360s to homes across Canada this Christmas. One thing all these devices have in common is that they all connect to the internet, which can not only lead to possible security threats like viruses and malware, but can also open the doors to children accessing websites or downloading content they really shouldn’t be. So, before you start letting your kids download all the apps they can, check out McAfee’s safety tips on how to secure your new internet-connected gadgets.

1. Protect your data.

In a recent global survey, home Internet users estimated that their digital assets, such as photos, contacts, and entertainment, were worth approximately $37,000.  In Canada, consumers valued their assets at a higher figure standing at more than $48,000.

Consider a product that offers data backup and restore features as well as advanced security that allows you to locate a missing device, lock it remotely, and wipe your data in case of loss or theft.

Don’t take a chance on losing important personal photos, creative works in progress, or financial information.

2. If you have a new Apple computer or device, including an iPad or iPhone, transfer your PC best practices to your new Apple product.

Unfortunately, the popularity of Apple computers and devices has led to an increase in Mac OS X-targeted threats. According to McAfee Labs, as of late 2010, there were 5,000 pieces of malware targeting the Mac platform, and this figure is increasing by 10 per cent per month.

As a proactive measure, consider installing security software that’s been developed for the Mac since more threats are being aimed at this platform.  Check out Apple’s new iCloud service, which provides tools for syncing, backing up and securing data. Use the native security settings on your new device to require a passcode to access the device.

3. If you have a new PC or Internet-connected device, make sure your computer has comprehensive security software – anti-virus software alone is not enough. Be sure to back up regularly.

8,900 new malicious websites are found daily. Your security software should include at a minimum: real-time anti-virus, a two-way firewall, anti-spyware, anti-phishing and safe search capabilities.  Additional levels of protection include anti-spam, parental controls, wireless network protection and anti-theft protection that encrypts sensitive financial documents.

4. Keep in mind that free security software can leave you unprotected.

Free security software typically provides only basic protection, and is often offered to get you to buy more comprehensive products. They generally lack important features such as a firewall, website health checks and automatic updates.

To ensure the best protection against emerging threats, look for security software that provides real-time protection using data continuously updated in the cloud.

Don’t forget to check whether the security software installed on your new PC is only a trial version.  If it is, remember to buy a subscription so that you have continuous protection against newly discovered threats.

5. Search and shop safely. 

To help you weed through malicious sites, be sure to use a website safety advisor that can tell you which sites are safe and which are risky.

Don’t forget to read the online store’s privacy and security policies before shopping.

6. Be aware of “scareware,” or fake antivirus software.

Scareware tricks users into believing that the computer is infected to get them to “buy” fake anti-virus software and hand over their personal and financial details, usually via pop-ups.

Scareware has grown by more than 600 per cent from 2008 to 2010, and is estimated to victimize one million Internet users a day. In 2011, for the first time ever, fake Mac anti-virus malware has become a tool for cybercriminals. Don’t buy anti-virus software through pop-up ads. Always purchase your security software from a reputable vendor.

7. Educate your family and pay attention to your children’s online activities. 

Keep your computer in a common area and discuss which information is appropriate to share online and which is not, such as addresses, phone numbers, and other private information. Be aware that if your children are surfing the web, they may not be as prudent when clicking on unknown links and sites, potentially increasing the risk of threats.

If you have young kids or tweens, limit their online access and the content they can view. Use a web-filtering tool that protects kids from accessing inappropriate content such as pornography, nudity, online hate groups, school-cheating sites, and profanity.

Assume your child knows how to turn off parental controls, so always keep a close eye on their activities.

8. If you or your child has a new gaming or entertainment device (Nintendo Wii or 3DS, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360), remember that these devices are now Internet-connected and are therefore vulnerable to many of the same threats as PCs.

Make reliable back-up copies of games to protect your investment.  Take advantage of built-in parental controls that can help shield kids from violent games or limit when the device can be used.

• Some multiplayer games allow kids to play with strangers over the Internet, so if you are a parent, consider activity-monitoring tools.

• Only connect your device to a secure Wi-Fi network.

• Don’t store personal information on your device.

9. If you have a removable storage device, such as a flash drive or portable hard drive, use technologies that will help protect your information.

Consider using a secure, encrypted USB stick, to encrypt your information so it is unreadable if your device is lost or stolen. Buy security software to protect your portable hard drive, and set a password. Don’t leave your removable storage device unattended since they are small and easily stolen.

10. If you have a new smartphone or tablet, know that threats aimed at mobile devices are growing.

Mobile malware is on the rise, and Android is now the most targeted platform. According to McAfee, attacks aimed at the Android platform grew 37 per cent from the second quarter to the third quarter of 2011.

Malicious applications are a growing threat area, so be careful of third-party applications and only download from a reputable app store. Read other users’ reviews and make sure the app’s access permissions make sense. Make sure you also protect against data loss by backing up your mobile devices regularly.

Although McAfee warns against using free security software, there are some great options out there. Check out the following blog posts for more information:

What to install on your kids’ new computer – Here are some free programs you might want to consider installing on your child’s new PC.

The best free antivirus software for your kids’ PC – You don’t need to buy software to protect your child’s computer from viruses. Here are some free alternatives that work well.

McAfee says to be aware of fake antivirus software and to never purchase software through pop-up ads. Read my post, What to do when you encounter a fake antivirus warning, for additional tips.

And finally, if you want an easy way to get rid of all those unwanted trial versions of software that came preinstalled on your new computer, check out An easy way to decrapify your new computer.

Sync readers, what value would you put on your digital assets? Is it anywhere near the $48,000 mentioned previously? Also, what steps do you take to protect the data stored on your internet-connected devices? Leave a comment to share your thoughts!

[Source: McAfee]