We have talked many times about taking care of the security of devices by not installing unofficial programs, avoiding having it outdated or not making mistakes and clicking on links that may be fraudulent. However, there is another factor to take into account: physical security. You could also make visible mistakes, which could be used to steal your accounts, bank cards, and the like. We are going to give you some recommendations.
The objective is that you can maximize your security and privacy, not only at the software level and when using the devices. You may be making certain mistakes and that could expose your accounts to third parties. They could find out your passwords, for example. It is always a good idea to check everything very well.
Improves physical security
Also focusing on physical details will help improve the security of your devices. Although it is true that the risk is usually lower, and they are also sometimes more remote cases, it does not mean that it does not exist. It is important to combine physical and software security to protect devices as much as possible.
Be careful not to write down your passwords
A fairly common mistake is to write down the passwords somewhere, such as a notebook, some paper, or even Post-it notes on the screen. The latter is something that happens in many companies, in which workers simply write down the access codes to the company’s platforms.
This is something you should avoid as it could end up in the wrong hands. For example, if you write down your passwords in a notebook, you could lose it. Alternatively, we recommend using key managers.
Don’t leave your devices unlocked
Another failure that can compromise the physical security of the devices is leaving them unlocked. For example, having your phone without a lock that prevents anyone from entering your WhatsApp conversations, opening applications of all kinds, viewing saved notes… The same could happen with a computer.
Ideally, you should always use secure locking methods. Use a password for your laptop, put a reliable access method on your mobile, such as a fingerprint or difficult PIN, but never leave it unprotected or use simple methods.
Cover the keyboard when entering the PIN
Mainly, we are referring to entering the PIN at the ATM when withdrawing money or entering passwords on a screen in certain places where there could be a camera, for example. Someone could be watching what you write. It could be directly, if there is someone behind, for example, but also through a camera.
The simple manager of covering the keyboard when entering the PIN when withdrawing money can help improve physical security. The same can apply in many similar actions. Even erasing the CVV code from the card (many no longer have it) and memorizing it is a good method in case you lose it or it is stolen.
Know the risk of public chargers
This problem is not that common, but it exists. There have been cyber attacks that rely on fake chargers. They place them in highly frequented public places, such as an airport or station, and wait for the victim to connect that cable to their mobile phone and thus begin the attack. It is yet another case of physical security problem.
As we say, it is something rare. However, it is always advisable to take extreme precautions. If possible, use your own charger. If you don’t have it, at least try to make sure it’s a reliable cable.
Alert with pendrives
A classic of computer attacks through a physical unit are pen drives. A simple USB memory can contain malware and can be used by cybercriminals to access a computer. It could be a pendrive that someone left you and it has a virus (without the other person being aware), but even cybercriminals could leave a USB memory “forgotten” in the hope that someone will use it.
Be careful with this. Be wary of any pendrive you see lying on the street. If you need to put in some memory of this type, and you are not 100% confident, you can use an alternative operating system, such as Linux, or start it in a safe environment, isolated from other devices that it may affect.
In short, these are some questions that you should take into account in relation to the physical security of the devices. Always make sure to protect your devices very well and not make mistakes.
