This presents unique threats on several fronts. While mobile device users are oftentimes obtaining their connectivity through 3G or 4G connections provided by their cellular phone companies, many of them are also hooking up to Wi-Fi networks in both public and private locations. With data caps becoming the norm for wireless providers, the temptation to use Wi-Fi connectivity whenever it is available is more pronounced. Because of that, hackers have a much richer hunting ground.
VPN Protection
Virtual private networks are becoming more popular with desktop users, largely due to increasingly intrusive attempts by ISPs and the entertainment industry to monitor consumer Internet usage. VPN connectivity also provides a layer of security that offers peace of mind to people checking their bank accounts, shopping at eCommerce sites and conducting other activities that involve sending sensitive information.
For users who are accustomed to having a VPN connection at almost all times when they are on the Internet, even sending an e-mail over an unsecured connection seems like too much of a risk. Most mobile devices are compatible with VPN technology. Between the various VPN providers out there that cater primarily to consumers, there are options that provide apps that can be used to connect a mobile device to a VPN provider with minimal technical knowledge.
As people begin using mobile devices more and more, they will obviously start using those devices for more sensitive activities. The risks in doing so can be mitigated by using a VPN connection.
Mobile OSs and VPN
All of the popular mobile operating systems do support VPN security. In fact, many of them are already set up so that configuring the device to work with a VPN is relatively simple. On most of these devices, VPN security can be provided over the device's 3G or 4G connection or over a Wi-Fi connection. One of the concerns with a VPN, however, is that it may cause a significantly more rapid rate of battery drain on some devices that connect to the Internet without user prompting.For example, many devices automatically connect to sync e-mail accounts, social networking accounts and other accounts, which consumes bandwidth and, because of the encryption involved, that may cause a mobile device's battery to drain more quickly. Some VPN protocols are also processor intensive.
While mobile devices are becoming increasingly powerful, they still lag behind desktop computers and laptop computers in terms of their processing power on average. This may slow the devices down when they are connected over a VPN. Where mobile devices are concerned, however, a VPN can be exceptionally useful, provided it is used in a sensible fashion.
Solutions
Because there are apps that make it easy to turn on VPN protection on a mobile device, it makes sense to use VPN selectively. For example, if you happen to be accessing your banking account over a public Wi-Fi, turning on your VPN would be highly advisable. Likewise, turning off your e-mail sync and only synchronizing when you have your VPN turned on – which does mean doing it manually – can increase your overall level of security.
If you're already a heavy mobile device user, consider investigating whether or not any VPN provider you are using provides an app for your mobile operating system. If they do, it may make that provider more attractive than others and give you an incentive to consider their services above those of other VPN companies.
Michael MaxsteadAbout the Guest Author:
Michael Maxstead is a big fan of VPN and provides in depth information and reviews on hiding your IP address and getting around geographical restrictions. Visit VPNReviewz.com for more information on how to use VPN and choose the right service for you.