All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
This article was taken from the February 2012 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
Your mobile phone carries all sorts of details that could damage you in the wrong hands. Here's how you can protect it from prying eyes.
Register your IMEI number
"The International Mobile Equipment Identity is used by police to trace a lost phone," says David Rogers, a mobile security expert. Network providers use it to block a stolen phone. It's usually found under the battery, or via the phone's settings. Register it at a site such as immobilise.com.
Remotely wipe all data
If you have lost your phone, you can clear the data before thieves download it. Android devices can use Google Sync along with Google Apps Device Policy to clear data remotely. Or download Lookout, which will do it for you. It's also available for BlackBerry and Windows phones.
Get antivirus protection
"Now is the time to protect against malware and viruses, particularly on Android phones. There are subtle ways for developers and fraudsters to get to your data," says Rogers. Most computer antivirus-software companies provide apps to keep out malware and viruses that grab data.
Download a phone-Finder app
Most smartphones now have GPS tracking -- which you can use to locate a lost phone. Microsoft offers a free app called My Phone for Windows Mobile. Apple's Find My iPhone app has been free since the introduction of iOS 4.2. Android users should try Theft Aware.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
