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Monday November 23rd, 2009 » Fall Quarter, Week 9

Safe Computing > Mobile

Mobile Security

Mobile computing offers the freedom of using your notebook computer or other mobile device in many remote locations. With this freedom also comes greater responsibility to keep the computer and information secure.

Securing Your Computer

Follow the steps in Securing Your Computer. These steps apply equally to notebook computers and desktop computers.

Physical Security

Security Cable

Portable computers have an added risk of being easier steal. It is important to have a way to secure your computer when you are not using it. If you have sensitive data stored on your computer, the University is responsible by law to notify anyone whose information may have been compromised.

  • Lock your notebook computer in a safe location when not in use.
  • Buy and use a notebook security cable.
    When you are using your notebook computer but need to step away for a moment, the cable will discourage anyone from walking away with your computer. They are available at most stores selling computer equipment.

Wireless Precautions

Using WiFi is a convenient way to use the network from remote locations. However this is a shared network. A shared network is like a dinner party - anyone can eavesdrop on your conversation, if they know how. Sophisticated network sniffing tools make it simple for others to look at network traffic, and capture data in-transit.

Secure Web Browsing

  • Use secure, encrypted sessions.
    • If you are using a Web browser, make sure you are using https in the address field if you are sending sensitive information, like logins and passwords.
    • If you are logging into servers or other computers remotely, use SSH instead of Telnet.

Secure Internet Transactions

  • Use UCI's VPN (Virtual Private Network)
    The software based VPN (advanced) will encrypt your network traffic, preventing anyone from eavesdropping on your transactions.

Use a Personal Firewall when on an untrusted network.

  • When using an untrusted network, such as a cafe, hotel or at a conference, use personal firewall software. Set the firewall to deny ALL incoming connections.

Never store Sensitive Data on mobile devices unless absolutely necessary.