The innovation that made your smartphone an all-in-one device has certainly made your life easier, but its also raised the stakes for theft and loss. Losing your cell phone doesn’t just mean losing a replaceable gadget anymore. It’s losing your camera, your planner, your phone book and even your bank account.
And yet, the device is so small and compact that it’s frighteningly easy to leave behind. These preventative, security-enhancing accessories will help you recover from the aftermath of a lost or stolen smartphone, so your life doesn’t have to unravel all at once.
1. BlackBerry Protect
Cell phones from BlackBerry can be protected from theft with a free app called BlackBerry Protect, which pinpoints the last known location of your device. Although it’s highly recommended that you backup your data with this app often, Protect can perform a remote backup of your data as well, and even wipe all stored data from the device. Users can also create a private message on the screen of the BlackBerry that offers a reward if found or instructions for returning your device.
2. Password Protection
Okay, so this one technically isn’t an accessory, but your phone already comes with some default security settings that you might not be taking full advantage of. It might seem like a pain at first to have to type in four digits before you can access your phone, but it’s the best way to ensure that an unauthorized user can’t access your personal information. Set your phone to automatically lock after no more than one minute of being idle and never save important information on any app that isn’t password protected.
3. Prey
If your laptop, tablet or smartphone goes missing, you can mark it as “missing” on Prey’s website. This gives you access to the device’s Wi-Fi geolocation, so you can track it down in seconds. You can also take a screenshot of your device, which can provide some idea of the thief’s activity that could be helpful. SMS service can send a message to a stolen phone with an email address for an easy return if your phone is found. The software is free, but users can upgrade to cover multiple devices and unlock special features.
4. Wireless Leash
An award-winning device for safety and security, this innovative one-button device makes emergency assistance easier. It’s small, portable and able to connect to any mobile phone with Bluetooth technology. During an emergency, you simply press and hold the wireless leash button to get in touch with 911 and speak directly to an operator from a built-in microphone. The wireless leash is always connected to your phone, and will alert you if you ever get too far from it.
Losing your phone can induce the same kind of panic as losing your child, but you can gain more peace of mind knowing your information is protected and retrieval is possible with security accessories and devices. The most important thing is not waiting to get into a dire situation before you prepare for it. Start protecting your phone by arming it with these four security must-haves, so you can truly preserve your investment.
