Let’s face it: data security is not easy whether this pertains to mobiles, tablets, smartphones or even laptops.

It shouldn’t be surprising that these devices are goldmines of personal information to thieves and which is why they are popular as well.

So, keeping this in mind, here are 3 ways you can protect your data:

#1: Encrypt everything

One of the easiest ways to protect your data is to make use of the in-built hardware encryption on your Android or iOS device. If enabled, you can be sure that without a passcode, noone will be able to read anything on your mobile. While iPhone and iPad users will be pleased to note that their data is already encrypted, Android users will have to go through a lengthy but easy process to encrypt their data.

#2: Watch out for malware

Android, unlike Apple, is far more vulnerable to malware since Google does not check apps before they go live on Google Play. It’s for this reason that malware creators has begun to offer free device wallpapers as well as games so as to infect one’s device. For this, make sure you check what’s on offer by Lookout, Avast and Kapersky in the form of antivirus and security apps to help secure your phone.

#3: Protect your data from border agents

Border agents are allowed to confiscate any devices you are are carrying and even copy its contents. Since these checks are done to prevent terrorism, there’s nothing that you can do to avoid them. However, instead of allowing them to download sensitive information, you can actually leave your hard drive behind and instead boot your system with an SD card or a USB.