Research claims that more than half, 54pc of second-hand phones contain personal data including texts, emails and even banking details, identity fraud product company Equifax is urging consumers to think about what personal data they store on their mobile phone and ensure they delete all data from both the phone and SIM card before recycling or selling it.
"We have all embraced the online world – transacting over the web, using our smartphones, joining social networks to share pictures and news – but with that increased accessibility has also come a whole new world of frauds and fraudsters, says Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director for Equifax.
"We believe more people are thinking about securing their home computer or laptop, but are forgetting to do the same with their mobile or smartphone", continued Neil Munroe. "Yet these offer many of the same features as a PC, which means they come with the same security risks."
According to Equifax research*, 40% of smartphone users also don’t use the passcode function, leaving them vulnerable to ID fraud. And this jumps when looking at the younger generation that have most embraced the new technologies.
62% of 22-25 year olds use their smartphone to regularly check their online banking. Yet despite fears about identity theft, 69% do not use a passcode function on their phone and only 35% admit to regularly clearing their browsing history after they use online banking. It’s also this generation where there’s probably more chance of them having personal items stolen when out shopping or in bars and clubs, making them the perfect target for fraudsters.
"Not having a passcode set up on your smartphone and forgetting to wipe all data from the phone itself and the SIM card before recycling or selling it puts personal data at enormous risk and leaves individuals open to becoming a victim of fraud.
"Equifax is constantly urging people to think about the amount of personal information they store on electronic devices – whether it’s via a pc, laptop, mobile or smartphone. It’s more important than ever to think about the security of that information."
Tips
Always use the PIN function on your handset
Don’t store reminders of passwords on your phone
Think about which accounts you access from your phone – would it be better to wait until you’re at the security of your home
Wipe browser history, especially if reviewing online banking
Keep an eye out for malicious software masquerading as apps
Keep your smartphone safe at all times
Delete all personal information from the phone and the SIM card before recycling or selling your phone.
