Mobile Device Safety Checklist for Aggies

Lock Down Your Passcodes/Passphrases. Always lock your screen using a strong password or passphrase, PIN, or biometric check (Face ID/fingerprint). Avoid obvious sequences like birthdays or repeated numbers. For crucial accounts, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of defense.

Learn more with the UC Davis Duo MFA Guide or view the Knowledge Base article on how to set up a new smartphone with Duo.

Automate Your Updates. Operating system and app updates patch newly discovered security flaws. Turn on automatic updates so your devices always run the latest, most secure software version.

Guard Your Wi-Fi Connection. Public Wi-Fi networks in cafes and airports are convenient, but they are often unencrypted. Avoid making financial transactions or accessing sensitive personal data on open public networks. Stick to trusted campus networks or your mobile data plan.

Think Before You Download. Only install apps from official stores or trusted developers. Before clicking install, review the requested permissions—does that new puzzle game really need access to your contacts, camera, or precise location? Audit your device's privacy settings regularly and revoke unnecessary access.

Use a Password Manager. Juggling credentials for canvas, email, banking, and social media often leads to risky password reuse. Use a trusted password manager to generate and store unique, complex passwords for every single account.

Enable Remote Tracking and Locking. Set up "Find My Device" and remote-wipe features before you need them. If your device goes missing, you can track its location, lock it remotely, or erase sensitive data instantly.

Regularly Back Up Important Files. Protect your photos, notes, and assignments against hardware loss, damage, or theft. Use a secure cloud backup service, such as Google Drive, Box or OneDrive, or an external hard drive, so you always have a copy of your work.

To encrypt an external hard drive, follow these steps for Windows or Mac OS:

• Windows: Use the built-in BitLocker encryption. (Find your external drive, right-click it, and choose “Turn on BitLocker”)
• Mac OS: Use the built-in FileVault encryption. (Find your external drive, right-click on it, and choose “Encrypt [Drive Name”) 

Watch Out for Scams and Phishing 
Scammers frequently target students by impersonating professors, university admins, or popular services. Be suspicious of unexpected texts or emails urging you to click links, make urgent payments, or verify account login info. 

Learn more: Read the Aggie's Guide to Phishing to spot and report scams.