Secure device setup
We’ve summarized some tips for end-user device usage on this site. A great resource for more in-depth information about those tips is the website of the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI, Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik).
We do not know every security guideline and tip out there, so please also check security tips of your operating systems like (Android, or iOS).
Please also understand, that we - as anybody else - cannot give you any security guaranty of your device or our system. With this page we are addressing the most common risks of end-user device usage. Even if you follow those guidances, it might happen that a security incident happens.
Enable PIN/Password Authentication of Device
The first line of defense for your device is a strong password or PIN. It is essential to enable this feature on your device to prevent unauthorized access. A secure password should be at least between eight and twelve characters long and contain a mixture of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. Additionally, you should avoid using easily guessable passwords, such as birthdays or names.
Only One Person Should Use the Device
It is recommended that only one person uses the device, and they should not share their password with anyone. Sharing passwords can lead to unauthorized access and compromise the security of the device.
Update the Operating System Regularly
Operating system updates are crucial to maintaining the security of your device. These updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities and bugs that could compromise your device’s security. Therefore, it is important to keep your device’s operating system up-to-date with the latest patches and updates.
Enable Hard-Disk Encryption
Hard-disk encryption is a security feature that encrypts the data stored on your device’s hard disk. This feature adds an extra layer of security to your device, making it difficult for anyone to access your data if the device is lost or stolen.
Enable a Virus Scanner
Viruses and malware pose a significant threat to your device’s security. It is important to enable a virus scanner on your device to protect it from potential threats. The virus scanner will scan your device for viruses and malware and alert you if it detects any threats.
Expert Corner
Rooted Devices
Rooting a device involves gaining access to the device’s root or administrative privileges. While rooting a device provides greater control over the device, it also exposes the device to potential security risks. Rooted devices are more vulnerable to malware and other security threats. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid rooting your device unless you have a good reason to do so.
Developer-enabled Phones
Developer-enabled phones are designed for developers and come with additional features that allow them to customize the device’s software. However, these features also make the device more vulnerable to potential security risks. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when using developer-enabled phones and avoid installing apps from untrusted sources.