The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented an online tool to help consumers protect their smartphones from mobile security threats.
The FCC’s new Smartphone Security Checker is a free and easy-to-use online application that creates a 10-step plan designed to increase smartphone security. Security plans are customizable to meet the unique requirements of phones based on the currently most popular smartphone platforms. The Smartphone Security Checker also includes links to online tutorials to help consumers take the steps necessary to increase the security of their smartphones.
According to the Commission, there are 120 million Americans who own a smartphone. However, less than 5% of smartphones in use have third-party security software installed, and fewer than 50% are password protected. With mobile security threats having increased more than 350% since 2010, the likelihood of being victim of a smartphone cybercrime is high.
The FCC’s Smartphone Security Checker is available at www.fcc.gov/smartphone-security.
