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The iPad is considered to be one of the most secure computing devices available today. The combination of hardware and software security measures essentially translate to a device that is safer than your personal computer or Mac; that is if you take the necessary steps to keep it secure. While there are no external cyber attacks known on iPads, the biggest risk to its security is physical loss of the device. Hence, the following tips should be used to ensure that your iPad is as secure as possible in case you lose it or it gets stolen.
Access Codes and Encryption
All iPads come with an inbuilt, powerful hardware encryption feature that needs to be enabled for full data security. By simply setting an access code on your iPad, you can encrypt and protect your data automatically. Enabling an access code can be done by heading to Settings – General – Access code lock and inputting a 4-digit code twice. If you want to have enhanced security, disable the Simple Passcode, which will allow you to use longer codes. While you’re there, don’t forget to require the Passcode to set no longer than 15 minutes and enable Clear Data. Besides, every modern iOS device comes with the Data Protection FIPS 140-2 encryption standard as an additional protective layer. This level of encryption encrypts your email messages and their attachments, safeguarding them against brute-force attacks even if an intruder jailbreaks and deletes the access code.
Improve The Access Code
To make the inbuilt iPad security features more potent, you can upgrade to Apple’s (formerly known as poorly) iPhone configuration utility. Although initially designed for companies’ use, this program allows you to set up new and advanced security profiles, even on an individual level. By clicking on Configuration Profile -> New and selecting ‘Password’ from the options displayed, you can choose the access password character length and other variables. To enable these password settings, you need to insert some information on the General tab, like the profile ID and name..
Renable Remote Wipe
The best security feature available on iPads is the Remote Wipe tool. If your iPad is lost or stolen and has internet connectivity, this tool allows you to wipe out all information on the device. Hence, it would help if you turned on the Find My iPad function in your Settings -> MobileMe -> Email, Contacts, Calendars if you use a MobileMe account. But if you are in charge of a company, only your exchange server administrator can wipe or remotely manage devices on the server.
Good Security Practices
You must take everyday actions to ensure that your iPad stays secure at all times, one of which is to make certain your network connections are as safe as possible. You can ensure this by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Another way to ensure safe email connections is by using servers that encrypt files by standard. If you use an IMAP or POP3 server that supports SSL, you can enable it and encrypt your files. For those who are more security-conscious and are worried about their document’s safety, applications like Good for Enterprise provide an excellent solution to ensure the contents of secure e-mail attachments are encrypted. Also, consider purchasing the 1Password Pro Application, it helps in generating individual, strong and complex passwords for different websites. It also synchronizes with other devices via Dropbox, stores secure notes and data, and has its integrated web browser to input passwords.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Should you use anti-virus software on your iPad?
No. Since there are no known viruses or malware that are specifically targeting iPad devices, there isn’t really any need to use anti-virus software at the moment. However, it is still advised that you download apps only from trusted developers, read app permissions carefully, and keep your device updated.
2. Can I still access my lost or stolen iPad after remote wipe?
No, you won’t be able to access your iPad remotely after remote wipe has been activated. This is due to the fact that all data on the device will be deleted, and there is no way to retrieve it once it has been wiped clean.